The Extinction of Landscape

About This Movie

The Extinction of Landscape is an intriguing blend of animation and documentary that captures the tension of the Sanrizuka struggle against Narita Airport's construction. Its hand-drawn animation infuses a kind of dreamlike quality, contrasting starkly with the grim realities of displacement and loss. The footage reveals a visceral atmosphere, with time-lapse sequences of abandoned homes revealing the passage of time and change in the landscape. The pacing is contemplative, allowing viewers to sit with the unsettling images, and the overall tone evokes both nostalgia and urgency. It’s distinctive because it doesn’t neatly fit into either genre, creating an experience that’s both visually striking and deeply thought-provoking.

This film is somewhat elusive in terms of availability, with limited distributions over the years, often found in niche collections or specialty releases. Collectors appreciate its unique fusion of animation and documentary styles, as well as its poignant commentary on urban development and community resistance. The scarcity of high-quality prints and its historical context make it a notable piece for those interested in animation that pushes boundaries, as well as socio-political documentaries from the early 1970s.