“Twist & Shoot Mister Suzuki”, interview with director Yves Montmayeur and producer Taku Kato

During the Venice Film Festival 2026 we spoke with director Yves Montmayeur and producer Taku Kato for the documentary feature  Twist & Shoot Mister Suzuki, presented here in the Venice Open – Out of Competition section of the festival. Here, we explore the life and cinematic influence of Japanese filmmaker Seijun Suzuki, highlighting his rebellious spirit and unique style and sheding a light on his unconventional approach and his impact on artists worldwide

The interview

During our interview on FRED Film Radio, the director of Twist & Shoot Mister Suzuki Yves Montmayeur explains that his initial idea was to create a traditional documentary about Suzuki, but that he quickly realized that to truly honor his spirit, he needed to embrace his transgressive style also. He then incorporated fictional sequences to reflect Suzuki’s disruptive approach, ensuring that his film would remain faithful to the unconventional methods of this master of cinema. Suzuki’s love for playfulness and humor was also central to his approach, aiming to evoke his personality authentically.

The producer of the film, Taku Kato, adds also that Suzuki’s rebellious attitude extended way beyond Japan, inspiring artists across various disciplines, including manga, music, and film, both domestically and internationally. The documentary Twist & Shoot Mister Suzuki indeed emphasizes Suzuki’s aesthetic, often described as stylish and cool, which continues to influence artists today.

The filmmakers also discuss Suzuki’s lasting legacy, which they describe as a style that transcends traditional filmmaking, likened to a poetic or musical sensibility. Montmayeur notes that Suzuki’s influence is akin to that of legendary directors like Fellini or Wong Kar-wai, who are also seen as multi-disciplinary artists. He highlights that Suzuki’s aesthetic represents a method of beauty that resonates beyond cinema, inspiring poets, musicians, and visual artists. As Suzuki’s reputation grows, the documentary Twist & Shoot Mister Suzuki stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and the power of his rebellious aesthetic.

Plot