Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Japan
A Deep Dive into the 1932 Vision of Teizô Katô
When we examine the cinematic landscape of Japan, The Plane Cabby's Lucky Day emerges as a landmark work of the unique directorial voice that Teizô Katô brought to the screen. This film stands as a masterclass in visual storytelling, it demands to be seen by anyone who cares about the art of film.
In The Plane Cabby's Lucky Day, Teizô Katô pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
| Cinematography | Static |
| Soundtrack | Minimalist |
| Editing | Slow-Burn |
| Art Direction | Brutalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Teizô Katô's style and the core Animation narrative.
In 1980, a young boy lives with his grandmother in a city where people use small airplanes to get from place to place. He drives a taxi plane, and during one of his travels he bumps into a bird that has been shot by the boy's latest customer. The bird, as well as a hungry bear he meets next, offer him a reward for his help. Men cause many problems for animals - is there a way to help them stay out of trouble?
Decades after its release, The Plane Cabby's Lucky Day remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Teizô Katô's status as a master of the craft in Japan and beyond.