Shuji Terayama was a prominent Japanese avant-garde filmmaker, playwright, and poet, born on December 15, 1935, in Aomori, Japan. He is best known for his innovative and experimental works that challenged traditional narratives and explored themes of identity, society, and the human condition. Terayama's unique style often blended various art forms, including theater, film, and visual arts. Throughout his career, Terayama founded the Tenjō Sajiki theater company and directed several influential films, such as Pastoral: To Die in the Country (1974). His contributions to Japanese culture have left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of artists and filmmakers. Terayama passed away on May 4, 1983.