“Persona Non Grata” finished its world premier in Kaunas, Lithuania and Japan premier in Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan.
From 5th December, its public release is to start.
Main actor Toshiaki Karasawa portraying Chiune Sugihara, main actress Koyuki portraying Yukiko Sugihara and Director Cellin Gluck came to premier at Waseda University on 24th November.
Once Chiune Sugihara studied there, and majored in English language in 1918. On university’s campus, there is a commemorative plaque saying “I made a right decision not as a diplomat but as a human being.”
University has a society called “Chiune Bridging Project” proliferating Sugihara’s credit vigorously in Japan and Lithuania. The members of society were on the stage after screening and talked with actors and the director.
Mr.Karasawa stated, “I felt difficulty in portraying a man with such a honorable credit.”
Ms.Koyuki mentioned, “While playing a role of Yukiko, I tried to always have an amiable atmosphere as his wife and, at the same time, as a mother of children.
“Persona Non Grata” pays attention to events beside Chiune Sugihara’s issuing of visas or people surrounding or succeeding him. Cellin Gluck explained the meaning of the film, “Nobody can live without someone’s help. I’d like to introduce not only his decision but also support of others.”
Moreover, one student from Chiune Bridging Project asked an advice concerning love. Karasawa’s serious reply provoked audience’s excitement.
The film premier event has been broadcasted on special program state-wide. The film is due to public release starting 5th December.