His Highness Surabaya

About This Movie

His Highness Surabaya is a curious blend of comedy that lives in its own absurd little world. With Hisaya Morishige at the helm, playing both the straight-laced nuclear physicist Kyutaro and his scheming twin Eiji, the film unfolds with a delightful sense of whimsy. Eiji's far-fetched ruse of impersonating a king captures the chaos of media frenzy in post-war Japan, and the pacing keeps you bouncing along with the ridiculousness of it all. The performances are lively, with a tangible energy that feels almost like an improvised stage play. It's that distinctive charm, combined with a playful satire of the era’s societal structures, that makes you appreciate this quirky gem in the context of its time.

His Highness Surabaya, while not exceptionally common in collector circles, has piqued interest among those who appreciate offbeat Japanese cinema. Its rarity, especially in good condition, makes it a nice find for those who delve into post-war Japanese comedies. Previous formats have included VHS and DVD, but original 35mm prints are becoming harder to track down, which adds to its allure for collectors who enjoy the unique narrative style and cultural commentary of the period.