Caniba (2017)

Caniba is a haunting exploration of human existence, delving into the abyss of cannibalistic desires through the life of Issei Sagawa. In 1981, Sagawa, a young Japanese man, committed an act of unthinkable horror in the heart of Paris, murdering and consuming a Dutch student. Deemed mentally ill, Sagawa escaped a conventional trial and, after a two-year stint in a French clinic, was allowed to return to Japan. Here, he unapologetically capitalized on his gruesome act, penning a book, creating a manga, and even participating in adult films. The film, crafted by anthropologists and filmmakers Véréna Paravel and Lucien Castaing-Taylor, unfolds as an unconventional and sensorial portrait of Sagawa, now partially immobilized by paralysis, more than three decades after his Parisian ordeal. 'Caniba' stands as their third full-length film, an endeavor to untangle the knotted motives that drove Sagawa to his dark indulgence. However, 'Caniba' is more than a study of one man's gruesome deed. It also explores the enigmatic bond between Sagawa and his brother, Jun, adding another dimension to this chilling narrative. A potent blend of anthropology and cinema, 'Caniba' promises an immersive journey into the shadowed corners of human desire, leaving viewers with a sense of both fascination and disquiet.

Caniba is a documentary movie featuring Issei Sagawa and directed by Lucien Castaing-Taylor.

Caniba is currently streaming on MUBI and MUBI Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy Caniba on Apple TV.