Ryuichi Sakamoto | Opus (2023): A Poignant Farewell Through Music

This week's film recommendation is Ryuichi Sakamoto | Opus (2023), a profoundly moving swan song from one of the world’s most influential musicians, Ryuichi Sakamoto. Filmed in late 2022 as Sakamoto mustered the last of his energy, this concert film stands as his final gift—a stripped-down yet powerful performance of his life’s work, featuring just him and his piano.

Curated and sequenced by Sakamoto himself, the film takes viewers on a wordless journey through his storied career, beginning with his iconic pop-star era as part of Yellow Magic Orchestra, then moving through his brilliant film scores for legendary directors Bernardo Bertolucci (The Last Emperor) and Nagisa Oshima (Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence). The performance also touches on his introspective later works, culminating in his final meditative album, 12.

Opus (2023)

The film is shot in striking black and white, directed intimately by Neo Sora—Sakamoto’s son—alongside a trusted team of collaborators. Each frame is crafted to reflect the minimalist elegance of Sakamoto’s music, allowing his haunting melodies to take center stage. As Sakamoto’s fingers glide over the keys, the audience is given a window into his soul—a raw, emotional farewell that is as much about his life as it is about the passage of time, art, and legacy.

For fans of Ryuichi Sakamoto or anyone moved by music’s power to connect us to something deeper, Opus is a must-watch experience. It is a celebration of art, resilience, and humanity, one that lingers long after the final note fades.

Watch Ryuichi Sakamoto | Opus now on Apple TV or Amazon Prime.

This is an excerpt from our August 22, 2024 newsletter. Love this recommendation? Discover more by subscribing to our newsletter here.