SCREENING: A Page of Madness (狂った一頁, Kurutta Ichipēji) (dir. Teinosuke Kinugasa; Japan, 1926; 71 mins.)

About this event

We mark 100 years since silent cinema reached its extraordinary peak as an international art form – distinct and different from the sound cinema that dominated screens from the 1930s, and, in some respects, superior. This season, entitled MASTERWORKS OF SILENT CINEMA, 1924–1926: Classics & Rediscoveries c elebrates both acknowledged masterpieces and bold rediscoveries from across the world, offering a rich cross-section of styles, from realism and psychological drama to avant-garde experimentation. This early Japanese masterpiece was believed lost ... until the director found 3/4 of the film in an old rice bin in his store room in 1971. Set – like the seminal 1920 The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari – in an insane asylum, A Page of Madness reaches deep into traditional Japanese art forms (especially Kabuki theatre, with its stylized masks) to create a profoundly modern and cinematic representation of altered states. Because this rare film is not 100% complete, a synopsis will be provided at the screening. Introduction by Mr. David & Dr. Joss. Doors open 5.30, for drinks & nibbles. Films start 6.30 with a brief introduction from the curators. Entry is free with a yearly ticket, although we suggest a small donation of £5 per head to help us keep the lights on! Yearly tickets giving full access to the museum can be purchased on the door (£7.50 adult / £6.00 concessions).