Diary follows the last years of musical genius

November 28, 2025 Ryuichi Sakamoto: Diary It will be released in theaters across Japan, with a private view of the last three and a half years of a world-renowned composer’s life.

Directed by Kensei Omori, the film is taken from Sakamoto’s own diary, where he documented his battle with cancer, his encounter with nature, and his ideas about creation and mortality. Longtime friend actor and dancer Min Tanaka gives voice to the words, providing a moving narrative clue in the documentary.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7szz1y2b4

Private lenses and unheard music

Sakamoto is more than just a bizarre artist – he has left an indelible mark on music and culture, from groundbreaking works with the Yellow Magic Orchestra to his famous film scores and outspoken activism.

In addition to his writings, the 96-minute film combines rare private footage and personal profiles shared by family members, creating photos of the composer’s daily life and places he spent: his New York home, his hospital room, his studio, where he held his final performance. It captures an unfinished sketch of his previous work, as well as moments shared with Yukihiro Takahashi, a member of the Yellow Magic Orchestra.

The documentary expands NHK’s acclaimed 2024 Special Doomsday: ryuichi sakamotoadd invisible material and unreleased compositions to transform them into a cinematic experience of film and memory.

Music not reserved

The film’s guiding theme comes from a quote from Sakamoto: “No music is retained.” This impermanent idea is drawn directly from his diary, encapsulating his later thoughts on what to leave behind. With immersive soundscape, Ryuichi Sakamoto: Diary The audience is invited to reflect on how the composer faces his life with creativity, courage and grace.

Ryuichi Sakamoto: Diary It will be released in theaters nationwide on November 28, 2025. For the latest news, trailers and updates, please visit Official website.

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