Professional Luncheon,
Yojiro Takita,
Director of Academy Award Winner "Okuribito" ("Departures")

The speech and Q & A will be in Japanese with English interpretation

Yojiro Takita's "Departures" -- better known as "Okuribito" in Japan -- has impressed audiences with its tale of a musician-turned-undertaker who discovers more about himself, the people around him and life when his orchestra disbands. None were more impressed than the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which awarded the movie the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film of the year.

On April 16, Takita will come to the FCCJ to talk about making the movie, the reception it has had and life after winning an Oscar. He'll also talk about his latest movie, "Tsurikichi Sanpei," which debuted in Japan on March 20.

Takita began in the movie business in 1981 with the "Chikan Densha" movies before making the jump from pink films to mainstream in 1986 with "No More Comic Magazines!" He has credits as a director for more than 40 films.

Sandwich Plate: Sauteed Salmon with Cucumber, Caper & Anchovy Marinade, Sauteed Carrots, Green Vegetables and Seasonal Salad.
Hot Plate: Roast Beef Baguette with Lettuce, Horseradish, Gravy, Tomato & Pickles.

Yojiro Takita, Director of Academy Award Winner "Okuribito"