Movie spotlight
その手にのるな
A woman in a bar was killed at a new construction site in an apartment building, and a handbag containing the value of five million yen was taken away. Detective Kuribayashi, who was involved in the investigation, turned his eyes to Kishida Ryohei, a cabaret musician who lives in a nearby apartment. He had a criminal record for stabbing his wife, who had betrayed him, and a match he worked for had fallen at the scene of the murder. However, Kishida, who appeared at the police station, stubbornly denied the crime, and he returned to his apartment without physical evidence.However, the residents of the apartment who learned of this had been cold-blooded and rumored to be a murderer. Kishida has a secret crush on the stripper Tachibana Yumi, who lives in the apartment directly opposite.However, Yumi has a lover of a plumber named Maki Shinji.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man, disillusioned with his mundane life and society, decides to embark on a series of increasingly absurd and dangerous schemes to find meaning and excitement. His actions often lead to humorous and chaotic situations, but also force him to confront the consequences of his choices. The film explores themes of existentialism, societal expectations, and the search for individuality in post-war Japan.
Critical Reception
The film was a critical and commercial success in Japan, praised for its innovative direction, sharp satire, and compelling performances. It is considered a significant work in Okamoto's early career and a notable example of Japanese cinema from the late 1950s.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its dark humor and satirical commentary on post-war Japanese society.
Lauded for Tatsuya Nakadai's charismatic and complex performance.
Considered a bold and unconventional cinematic work for its time.
Google audience: Audience reception in Japan was generally positive, with many appreciating its wit and unconventional narrative structure. Some viewers found the themes challenging, but it was widely recognized for its artistic merit.
Fun Fact
Kihachi Okamoto, known for his samurai and kaiju films, directed this earlier, character-driven social satire, showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker.
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