In 1996, Japanese film director Nagisa Oshima was suddenly seized with cerebral apoplexy just after announcing the production of a new film. Although it was feared that he might be disabled for life, Oshima, after three long years of rehabilitation, made a miraculous recovery and, in 1999, resumed production of Gohatto, his first film in thirteen years. Oshima ′99 traces Oshima′s steps as he struggles through the rehabilitation process, is welcomed back on to the shooting scene with a large applause from his staff, and announces the start of the shooting in his loud, distinctive voice. The program then goes on to show Oshima directing his film in his own charismatic manner. At the same time, the program incorporates comments from many members of Oshima′s staff who have given their long-term support to the director’s works. They include Takeshi Kitano and Ryuichi Sakamoto. Through their devotion to Oshima, we are able to get a clear picture of the appeal of the personal side of Nagisa Oshima, a man who has made his own way in the Japanese film industry. (production notes)