“The Sun” (Taiyo), the Russian movie depicting the Emperor Hirohito in the dying days of World War II, has taken the Grand Prix at the 13th St. Petersburg International Film Festival. Starring versatile actor Issey Ogata (photo, 53), the critically acclaimed film (it has been described as the best Russian film in years) is unlikely to see general release in this country due to its subject matter. Indeed, the identity of the actor playing the lead role was not revealed until after shooting had finished, for fear of what right-wingers might do. The movie is the third in a series by director Alexander Sokurov which has previously included films about Hitler and Lenin.
• Rumors continue of a split between recently married actress Sugita Kaoru (40) and wealthy entrepreneur Ayukawa Junta (44). She is denying the rumors so far, but in a way that has the media even more convined that the marriage is on the rocks. She is scheduled to appear on a live morning show on TBS and may be a bit more forthcoming on the issue. The couple married in January, but have not lived together at Ayukawa’s plush Tokyo home. He is said to be the one pushing for divorce.
• NHK announcer Udo Yumiko (36) was caught on a date with her rumored boyfriend by the weekly gossip magazine “Friday.” The man is described as a 35-year old “ikemen” (handsome) certified public accountant. Udo has been romantically linked with a host of men over the years, including Yokohama Bay Stars player Ishii Takuro (34), but the latest romance is said to be one step away from marriage.