Struggles of the East

One of the great masterpieces of Japanese cinema, Kenji Mizoguchi's magnificent film explores the decline of a respectable noblewoman in 17th century Japan. O-Haru (Kinuyo Tanaka) is a courtesan whose passion for a young page (Toshiro Mifune) leads to her social ostracisation and exile.

O-Haru suffers a succession of tribulations as she struggles to retain her self-respect.

She is taken as a mistress by a nobleman who requires an heir, only to be abandoned, and for her father to sell her as a concubine.

One brief moment of happiness, when she marries a fan-maker, is brought to an abrupt halt when her husband is murdered. And worse is to follow. Exquisitely made, the film is also a fascinating exploration of women in Japanese feudal society. Don't miss.

The Life Of Oharu
Cert: PG