Arakimentari

By: Eric Bresler
In-House Review - Feb 02 2006

Arakimentari is a somewhat entertaining introduction to the sexually charged life and work of the world's most published photographer. The filmmaker is obviously a huge fan of Nobuyoshi Araki as the majority of the film's 75 minute running time is spent on long montages of photographs set to the music of composer DJ Krush. The film relies heavily on testimonies from somewhat questionable sources such as Björk and Richard Kern whose praise for Araki's work is intended to rub off on the viewer's sensibilities. Audiences are never prompted to question the integrity of the photographer's art although some viewers will definitely identify with his Japanese detractors. Observing the photographer at work is a joy nonetheless as he sweet talks his subjects with a kinetic, excitement. Araki's passion for his art is obvious and his technical skills make the photographic process look easy. Arakimentari will definitely appeal to Japan-philes, photo connoisseurs, and fans of offbeat erotica, though the casual documentary viewer should find something enjoyable in it as well.