11.25 The Day He Chose His Own Fate

Synopsis

11.25 The Day He Chose His Own Fate explores the final days of Yukio Mishima, one of Japan’s most controversial and celebrated literary figures. Directed by Kōji Wakamatsu and starring Arata Iura as Mishima, the film delves into the ideological struggles and personal convictions that led to Mishima’s dramatic public act in 1970. Set against the backdrop of post-war Japan, the movie portrays Mishima’s interactions with young followers and his attempts to revive traditional Japanese values amidst a rapidly modernizing society. Through a contemplative narrative, the film provides a sobering look at the clash between modernity and nationalism while reflecting on the legacy of a man who chose his own fate.

Cast

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  Arata Iura

  Yukio Mishima

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  Shinnosuke Mitsushima

  Masakatsu Morita

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  Tasuku Nagaoka

  Masayoshi Shoga

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  Suzunosuke Tanaka

  Masahiro Ogawa

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  Kiyohiko Shibukawa

  Hiroshi Mochimaru

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  Shima Onishi

  Kiyoshi Kuramochi

Reviews

Critical reception for "11.25 The Day He Chose His Own Fate" has been mixed, highlighting its ambitious subject matter but noting pacing issues. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.0/10 based on user reviews, reflecting a moderate appreciation from audiences. Critics have praised Arata Iura’s intense and thoughtful portrayal of Yukio Mishima, which captures the author's complex persona with depth and sensitivity. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the film’s slow pacing and heavy political dialogue may challenge casual viewers. Rotten Tomatoes does not currently have sufficient reviews for an aggregated score, but individual critiques commend the film’s historical accuracy and atmospheric cinematography. Metacritic lacks a formal score for this title, underlining its status as a niche film more appealing to those interested in Japanese history or literary biopics. Overall, the movie is noted for its respectful portrayal of a polarizing figure, yet it may feel somewhat inaccessible due to its deliberate narrative style and cultural specificity.