‘Sayonara’

Made just over a decade after the end of the Second World War, Sayonara is one of the first films to portray Japanese characters in a positive light.

A fighter pilot and hero of the Korean War, Major Lloyd Gruver (Marlon Brando) is transferred to Kobe. Against army regulations and his own initial prejudices, he falls for and plans to marry Hana-Ogi (Miiko Taka), a hugely popular Matsubayashi performer. The tragic parallel story of the recently married Red Buttons and Miyoshi Umeki, singled out by his military superiors, adds to the call for tolerance and understanding.

With its extensive inclusion of Matsubayashi and Kibuki performances alongside Japanese culture and traditions, director Joshua Logan braves questions of racism and intolerance – even if the sexual politics of the film and the position of Japanese women is questionable.

Nominated for 10 Oscars in 1958 (including best film, actor, director, adapted screenplay), won 4, including best supporting actor – Red Buttons – and supporting actress – Miyoshi Umeki.

Rating: 64%

Director: Joshua Logan (Fanny, South Pacific)

Writer: Paul Osborn (East of Eden, South Pacific) – based on the novel by James A. Michener

Main cast: Marlon Brando (On the Waterfront, The Godfather), Red Buttons (Hatari!, The Longest Day), Miyoshi Umeki (Flower Drum Song, A Girl Named Tamiko)