Review of Funeral Parade of Roses

 Review:

“Every man has his own mask which he has carved for a long time. Some wear the same masks all their lives, others use a variety of masks. Some masks stress the features others are far from their original. Some are poor and easily distinguishable others are so skilfully made, they’re hardly distinguishable. People always wear masks when they face each other. They see only masks. Even if they remove their masks their faces seldom expose themselves. Because there may be second masks. And even third masks hidden under the first ones. Therefore, people often take your masks for you. And you take theirs for them. The objective of love and hatred may be the masks. Faces suffer loneliness. People try to escape from it and make new masks.”

"Funeral Parade of Roses" is a groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece that captivates with its avant-garde storytelling and compelling exploration of identity. I was immediately drawn to Toshio Matsumoto's innovative approach to narrative structure and visual aesthetics.

Matsumoto seamlessly weaves together documentary-style interviews, dream sequences, and stylized dramatizations, creating a tapestry of perspectives that invites us to question the nature of reality and self. This unconventional storytelling mirrors the complex and fluid nature of identity, a theme that resonates deeply with the contemporary discussions around gender and sexuality.

The cinematography of "Funeral Parade of Roses" is nothing short of mesmerizing. The use of handheld cameras and dynamic angles contributes to the film's frenetic energy, mirroring the tumultuous emotional journey of the characters. The black-and-white visuals not only pay homage to classic cinema but also serve as a stark canvas for the vibrant characters and their intricate relationships.

The film's exploration of gender fluidity and sexual identity is particularly poignant. In the context of the late 1960s, when the film was made, "Funeral Parade of Roses" courageously challenges societal norms. The protagonist, Eddie, navigates a world that resists easy categorization, embodying the fluidity and complexity of gender. Matsumoto's portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community is groundbreaking for its time, paving the way for future filmmakers to explore themes of identity and sexuality with nuance and sensitivity.

One cannot discuss "Funeral Parade of Roses" without acknowledging the influence of French New Wave cinema. Matsumoto's use of jump cuts and fragmented editing pays homage to directors like Jean-Luc Godard, infusing the film with a sense of intellectual playfulness. This stylistic choice not only adds to the film's visual allure but also contributes to its overall impact as a work of art that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries.

"Funeral Parade of Roses" has been an inspiring journey into the limitless possibilities of cinematic expression. Matsumoto's fearless approach to storytelling, coupled with the film's stunning visuals and thematic richness, elevates it to a level of artistic brilliance that continues to resonate with audiences and influence filmmakers to this day. This avant-garde gem remains a testament to the power of cinema to challenge conventions and provoke meaningful conversations about the complexities of the human experience.