In a groundbreaking cinematic venture, Masami Nagasawa is set to star in her first period drama, portraying the life of Katsushika Oei, the daughter of the renowned Edo-period artist Hokusai. The film, titled "Ooku, Hokusai's Daughter," is scheduled for release on October 17, 2025, and is directed by Naomi Osada, who previously collaborated with Nagasawa on the critically acclaimed film "Mother." This partnership promises a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of Oei's life as both an artist and Hokusai's daughter.
Katsushika Oei, a prominent female Ukiyo-e artist of her time, is depicted as a talented painter whose skills were recognized even by her father, who reportedly acknowledged her talent as superior to his own. Despite the patriarchal constraints of the Edo period, Oei carved out a niche for herself as one of the few female artists, showcasing her exceptional ability in a male-dominated field. The film aims to highlight her struggles, triumphs, and the intricate relationship she had with her father, Hokusai.
Nagasawa, who has been a leading figure in the Japanese film industry since winning the Best Supporting Actress award at the 25th Japan Academy Awards for her role in "Crying Out Love, In the Center of the World," expressed her excitement about taking on this challenging role. In her words, "Director Osada is a passionate individual. He not only allows me to confront the character but also gives me time to reflect on myself. I feel a deep love for filmmaking through his gaze, which ignited a fire in my heart."
In preparing for her role, Nagasawa described Oei as having a boldness akin to that of a child, living freely without regard for societal expectations. She noted, "Oei's spirit is reminiscent of modern women, and I find her character incredibly appealing. The more I learned about her, the more I admired her complexity. I truly wanted to meet her in person and witness her artistry firsthand." This depth of character is expected to resonate with audiences, as the film explores not just Oei's artistic endeavors, but also her personal journey.
Naomi Osada, who helmed the screenplay and direction for "Ooku, Hokusai's Daughter," has a reputation for crafting narratives that are both poignant and engaging. In discussing the film, Osada remarked on Oei's exceptional talent, stating, "She was a daughter of Hokusai and lived alongside him. Her artistic abilities were outstanding, and her beauty in painting was something that Hokusai himself acknowledged. However, very few of her works remain today." He further mused, "If we consider the words of poet Shuntaro Tanikawa, Oei might have thought, 'I’m not thinking about that.' But in reality, her life was about experiencing everything beautiful around her."
The film's promotional materials have already begun to generate buzz, with a teaser visual featuring Nagasawa as Oei, holding a brush and gazing intently at the viewer. This image captures the essence of Oei's character, reflecting her determination and the challenges she faced as an artist. As the film's release date approaches, anticipation continues to build around the narrative that promises to illuminate the life of a remarkable woman who defied the odds.
Set against the backdrop of Edo-period Japan, "Ooku, Hokusai's Daughter" not only aims to entertain but also to educate viewers about the historical significance of female artists in a time when their contributions were often overshadowed. The film is based on works by Hinako Sugiura and Natsuko Iijima, specifically focusing on Oei's life and artistic journey. The screenplay is crafted to intertwine historical accuracy with engaging storytelling, ensuring that audiences leave with a greater appreciation of Oei's legacy.
As the film gears up for its nationwide release, it will be showcased at TOHO Cinemas and other venues, making it accessible to a wide audience. The official website for the movie, https://oioui.com, provides additional information and updates, while the film's social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, under the handles @oioui_movie and @oioui.movie, respectively, keep fans engaged with behind-the-scenes content and promotional materials.
In a landscape where female narratives are gaining more visibility, "Ooku, Hokusai's Daughter" stands out as a significant contribution to the genre of period dramas. It not only highlights the artistic prowess of Katsushika Oei but also serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in art history. With Nagasawa's powerful portrayal and Osada's insightful direction, the film is poised to resonate with audiences and spark conversations about gender, art, and legacy.
As excitement builds for the film's release, many are eager to witness how the story of Katsushika Oei unfolds on the big screen. This film promises to be more than just a depiction of historical events; it aims to capture the spirit of a woman who, against all odds, pursued her passion for art and left an indelible mark on the world.
