Sanrizuka – Peasants of the Second Fortress is the fourth in a series of seven films shot between 1968 and 1977 by Ogawa Productions in the fields of Sanrizuka. Four years into the conflict, the authorities started the coercive expropriation of the farmlands, and the violence escalated. This was met by the farmers and fighting students with a renewed sense of resistance. They erected barricades and built fortresses for protection, digging underground tunnels to prepare for a prolonged confrontation. The women farmers, on the front line since the beginning of the conflict, chained themselves to the trees. The filmmakers of Ogawa Productions are inside the fortress, following the preparations, discussions and ensuing battles, documenting the struggles with long takes, filmed with boldness and proximity. Between moments of great tension and battle, we listen at length to the farmers discussing why they resist and expressing their anger, fears and hopes.

With an introduction by Ricardo Matos Cabo.