See Mamoru Oshii's The Red Spectacles in 4K This November

4K Restoration Screening of Mamoru Oshii's The Red Spectacles

Film enthusiasts, mark your calendars! Mamoru Oshii's classic film, The Red Spectacles (Akai Megane), will be screened in a stunning 4K restoration at Metrograph, New York City, from November 21 to 23. This limited-time screening also includes Ashii’s Angel's Egg on November 20.

About the Restoration

The new version, which was made possible through crowdfunding, has received backing from 2,953 supporters. The film was meticulously scanned in 4K resolution from the original 35mm camera negative, followed by a comprehensive digital restoration and color grading. The sound was also enhanced; the original soundtrack was digitized from the 16mm magnetic track, with a new 5.1 remix overseen by Oshii himself.

The Story Behind The Red Spectacles

The Red Spectacles is part of Oshii's Kerberos Saga, a multimedia project that originated with a radio drama in 1987. The film paints an alternate history where Japan allied with the West in World War II, only to face defeat due to advanced Nazi technology. The narrative dives deep into societal changes and the militarization of the Japanese police during times of political extremism.

The plot follows Koichi Todome, a former member of the Kerberos corps, who returns to a transformed Japan after fleeing three years earlier. As he searches for his former comrades, he confronts the dire changes in both the city and its inhabitants.

The Saga's Popularity

The film has also inspired a manga adaptation and is connected to the well-known anime, Jin-Roh, which was crafted by Hiroyuki Okiura and features a storyline written by Oshii. Jin-Roh later received a live-action remake titled Illang: The Wolf Brigade.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this cinematic masterpiece in a completely new light. Tickets can be purchased at the Metrograph’s official site.

Source: Anime News Network