Death of the Composer of "The Last Emperor" Film at 71

Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, an Oscar winner known for his musical scores in several films, has passed away at the age of 71. Sakamoto was renowned for his work on the films "The Last Emperor" and "Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence." He also participated in several acting roles and was well-known for his collaboration with the pioneering electronic music group Yellow Magic Orchestra, which he co-founded. AVEX Recording Company, with which Sakamoto worked, stated in a statement on their website that he lived with music until the end of his life. They added that Sakamoto had been suffering from cancer but continued to work in his studio whenever his health allowed it, and noted that he died on March 28. Sakamoto was known for his opposition to the use of nuclear weapons and was also an environmental activist.