
Encyclopedia of a Drifter 1998
Directed by Katsuyuki Hirano, *Encyclopedia of a Drifter (1998)* is a raw, unflinching documentary-drama that delves into the intimate and often unsettling world of its subjects.
Director: Katsuyuki Hirano
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Encyclopedia of a Drifter (1998) about?
*Encyclopedia of a Drifter* follows Katsuyuki Hirano during a period of personal upheaval, blending documentary-style footage with dramatic elements. The film explores his relationship with performer Tomoko Matsunashi, capturing the tension between artistic expression and emotional vulnerability. The result is a deeply personal yet confrontational portrait of intimacy and rebellion.
Who directed Encyclopedia of a Drifter?
The film was directed by Katsuyuki Hirano, known for his provocative and boundary-pushing approach to cinema.
Who stars in Encyclopedia of a Drifter?
The documentary-drama stars Katsuyuki Hirano himself and performer Tomoko Matsunashi as its central figures.
Is Encyclopedia of a Drifter (1998) worth watching?
While unconventional, *Encyclopedia of a Drifter* is a fascinating watch for fans of raw, documentary-style cinema. Its themes of personal turmoil and artistic defiance set it apart, though its extreme content may not appeal to all viewers. It's best approached as a cult film with a niche appeal.
How long is Encyclopedia of a Drifter?
The runtime of *Encyclopedia of a Drifter* is 119 minutes.
About Encyclopedia of a Drifter (1998) — A Provocative Documentary-Drama Explored
Directed by Katsuyuki Hirano, *Encyclopedia of a Drifter (1998)* is a raw, unflinching documentary-drama that delves into the intimate and often unsettling world of its subjects. Shot during a turbulent personal period for Hirano, this film captures the stark contrast between light and shadow, following the director's emotional unraveling alongside performer Tomoko Matsunashi. The camera's intensity becomes a metaphor for raw artistic expression, blending documentary honesty with dramatic tension. The result is a deeply personal exploration of identity, intimacy, and the blurred lines between creator and subject, delivered in a style that challenges and unsettles viewers.
Part of Hirano's provocative *bicycle trilogy*, this work stands as a raw counterpart to his earlier film *Yumika*. Two versions exist—one censored, one uncensored—each offering a different lens on the same themes of vulnerability and defiance. The uncensored cut, with its extended runtime and heightened intensity, provides a more immersive, if confrontational, experience for audiences seeking films that push boundaries. The atmosphere is one of controlled chaos, where every frame feels like a deliberate violation of comfort, making *Encyclopedia of a Drifter* a cult curiosity for fans of unfiltered cinema.