# Cruel Famine Continent (1973)

Released 1973-06-20

Cruel Famine Continent is a 1973 film. It is directed by Yoshimitsu Banno.

Director: Yoshimitsu Banno

## Storyline
Cruel Famine Continent documents the Great Sahelian drought in West Africa and its effect on the people. The production was an attempt to pivot Toei's output from yakuza films and Toei Porn towards "global issues" and "whatever makes money", as stated by then-Toei president Shigeru Okada.  Theatrical proceeds were to be shared as relief funds through the Japanese Red Cross, though the box office returns are unknown.  Footage shot for the documentary by Yoshimitsu Banno would later be reused in the 1974 Toho production Prophecies of Nostradamus.

## Common questions

### When was Cruel Famine Continent released?
Cruel Famine Continent was released on 20 June 1973.

### Who directed Cruel Famine Continent?
Cruel Famine Continent was directed by Yoshimitsu Banno.

---
Source: https://clapnumber.com/movies/cruel-famine-continent
Retrieved: 2026-09-29