A Man Vanishes (1967) 2012

Tadashi Oshima Goes Missing

Tadashi Oshima, a 32-year-old salesman from Naoetsu, mysteriously disappears, prompting concern among his loved ones. His fiancée, Yoshie Hayakawa, is particularly dedicated to uncovering the truth behind his sudden absence.

Yoshie Teams Up with Imamura

In her search for Oshima, Yoshie collaborates with Imamura and his film crew. They set out to interview family members and colleagues, determined to piece together Oshima's final known actions.

Discovery of Embezzlement

As interviews progress, the team uncovers shocking truths about Oshima. It is revealed that he embezzled funds from his workplace, challenging the perception of him as a meek and compliant individual.

Romantic Complications Arise

The investigation uncovers Oshima's romantic involvement with Kimiko, another woman. This revelation adds tension, as it raises questions about his commitment to Yoshie and the factors preventing him from marrying her.

Yoshie's Family Dynamics

Yoshie's family dynamics complicate the investigation further, especially concerning her older sister Sayo. Sayo's unconventional relationship and the history of violence between her and Yoshie complicate familial bonds and trust.

Witness Statement at the Restaurant

During a gathering at a local restaurant, tensions are high when a fishmonger claims to have seen Sayo and Oshima together multiple times. This claim is vehemently denied by Sayo, leading to deeper mistrust and accusations.

Shift to the Film Studio

The narrative takes an unexpected turn when the setting shifts to a film studio. Imamura declares that the storyline and its characters are fictional, prompting the audience to reconsider the events unfolding in the investigation.

Reenactment of Key Meeting

In a climactic scene, the film crew stages a reenactment of a pivotal meeting between Sayo and Oshima. This reenactment leads to a heated confrontation filled with accusations of deception among Yoshie, Sayo, and the fishmonger.

Imamura's Closing Statement

Imamura wraps up the filming with a thought-provoking statement. He emphasizes that while the film may be finished, the truth of reality continues, leaving the audience in contemplation about the complexities of life and relationships.

Shamanic Consultation

Interspersed throughout the film are poignant moments where Yoshie consults various shamanic mediums. One medium shockingly insinuates that Sayo may have been responsible for Oshima's disappearance out of jealousy, deepening the film's mystery.

Family Reflections

As the investigation draws to a close, Oshima's relatives reflect on his character and past. Their varied responses highlight the complexities of familial relationships and the lingering questions surrounding Oshima's actions.

Confrontation of Truths

The final confrontation among the characters reveals the deeply woven lies and truths. Each character's perspective surfaces, showcasing the complicated web of relationships that cloud the investigation.