Ukon the Samurai

Ukon the Samurai

Film Description:

Japan, a land of mystery, strength and placidity, of determination and silence, embraced the evangelical message of St. Francis Xavier, who arrived for the first time in 1549. He is hosted by a daymo (feudal lord) in Kobuku. In these years he resides in the city, spreading the gospel to different people of the upper class. Among these were the noble feudal family Takayma, appointed by the Emperor. Father and son, whom were raised in the way of the sword and in compliance with the code, with an army of samurai at their disposal. They decide to be baptised, the father takes the name of Dario, and the son Ukon, born in 1552 takes the name of Justus. In 1587 an imperial edict prohibits the “religion of the West.” Several nobles are killed, while Justus choose to forego his possessions and honour in order to proceed in the way of love. For some years he was protected by other nobles until he was forced into exile in the Philippines among the Spanish Jesuits. Here he died of starvation and disease in 1615. He is now in the process of being beatified 400 years after his death. His example is an inspiration for many young people and it is an opportunity to create a bridge between the East and the West.

The narration, strengthened by the power of evocative and symbolic images, will present Justus Takayama as the fruit of Francis Xavier and the other Jesuit’s commitment, who gave their lives for the East. The core values of Japanese culture, the way of the sword and of honour, found in him an important meeting point with the path of Christian ascesis, making the message more timely than ever.

The realization of the work provides a simple language, that knows how to communicate to young people, rediscovering the magnitude of true courage.

Release Date: (DVD) 2016

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