Movie spotlight
Sigh
One day, Yumiko, an office worker, is called in by the managing director. Having been holding in her urge to urinate, she is ordered by the managing director to relieve herself in front of him, and embarrassed, she urinates into a vase. Later, when section chief Suzuki invites Yumiko on a drive, he takes her virginity that same day, awakening her to the pleasures of sex.
Insights
Plot Summary
In the Edo period of Japan, a young woman named Moi lives under the oppressive thumb of her father, a samurai of modest means. She dreams of escaping her predetermined fate, which involves a loveless arranged marriage to a wealthy but cruel merchant. Her only solace is a secret romance with a young artist. When Moi's father discovers her forbidden love, he unleashes his fury, leading to tragic consequences that ripple through their lives and the community.
Critical Reception
Sigh is a poignant and visually striking film that explores themes of societal constraint, female agency, and the enduring power of love in feudal Japan. While perhaps less known than some of Mizoguchi's other masterpieces, it is praised for its masterful direction, evocative atmosphere, and the powerful performances of its cast, particularly Kinuyo Tanaka.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its beautiful cinematography and atmospheric storytelling.
Kinuyo Tanaka's performance is a standout, conveying deep emotional resonance.
Explores themes of oppression and the struggle for personal freedom with subtlety.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for Sigh (1973) is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Although Kenji Mizoguchi died in 1954, "Sigh" is attributed to him as a posthumous work, compiled from footage and themes he had developed prior to his death, with completion overseen by his colleagues.
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