Hands 1975

Directed by James Beveridge

A 1975 film sponsored by Mobil Oil Company. James Beveridge spent a year in Japan making this film about the National Living Treasures of Japan. Beveridge completely abandoned the use of narration and it created a huge split with his funders. He insisted on completing the film his way, with an austere sound track using “Noh” music and song, no narration, and a mix of natural sounds including those of the artists making their crafts. Crafts featured include pottery, weaving, paper making, and blacksmithing.