“Benshi” Sawato Midori: The Voice of Silent Film in Japan

Sawato Midori is a legendary benshi. (© Kodera Kei)

Sawato Midori, illuminated at left, during the performance at Kinokuniya Hall. (© Kodera Kei)

Matsuda Shunsui. (Courtesy Matsuda Film Productions)

Sawato Midori with Matsuda Shunsui, shortly after being taken on as his disciple. (Courtesy Matsuda Film Productions)

Sawato Midori narrates 7th Heaven. (© Kodera Kei)

Sawato performs at Antwerp in 1990. (Courtesy Matsuda Film Productions)

Sawato Midori (© Kodera Kei)