"Cruel Story of Youth"
1960
Directed by Nagisa Oshima

Oshima's second feature conveys the pent-up sexuality and disillusionment among Japan's postwar generation. Two lovers live outside the boundaries of their society, performing shakedowns on unsuspecting middle-aged men and speeding away on the angry boy's gleaming motorcycle with the goods. With seemingly disconnected details and stark framings, Oshima creates an atmosphere akin to the French New Wave. Japanese with English subtitles. 96 minutes.