Drama
Japanese (山椒大夫)
1954 · Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi · 124 min
In medieval Japan, the family of an idealistic provincial governor is torn apart by forces far beyond its control. Two children grow up under the authority of a ruthless estate manager while holding on to their father's principles. A slow, painterly and deeply humane tragedy.
Why it matters in cinema history
A defining film of the Japanese golden age and of Mizoguchi's late style, it shows how the long take and a distanced camera could carry intense emotion.
Watch with intention
Watch how Mizoguchi keeps his distance, letting long, moving shots hold suffering at a respectful remove so that feeling builds through composition.
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