Passion
A singular deadpan comedy, The Passion tells a story of a young woman raised in a convent named Frances-ko (Mayuko Iwasa), after Saint Francesco. Distressed by not knowing about love and sex, she calls out for a sign from above, but instead hears a voice from below. A human-faced growth speaks to her from between her legs, constantly berating her, calling out "Woman, you are worthless!" Mr. Koga, as she names it, continues the verbal abuse, yet Frances-ko somehow adapts, forming an adversarial yet symbiotic relationship. This bizarre film, based on Kaoruko Himeno's acclaimed 1997 novel of the same name, is skillfully directed by Ryoko Yoshida, lensed by veteran cinematographer Akiko Ashizawa, grounded by Iwasa's show-stopping performance and enlivened by the hilarious Kanji Furutachi, who lends his voice to the chauvinistic Koga. The soundtrack boasts an unmissable eclectic score by legendary experimental musician and composer Otomo Yoshihide.
Insights
Plot Summary
A manipulative advertising executive attempts to steal her protégé's idea and destroy her career, but the situation escalates into a murder investigation. The film explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the dark side of power within the cutthroat world of advertising. As lies and manipulations unravel, the consequences become deadly.
Critical Reception
Passion received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with many finding it to be a pale imitation of De Palma's earlier works and citing a lack of originality and genuine suspense. While some appreciated the visual style and performances, the film was largely criticized for its predictable plot and convoluted narrative.
What Reviewers Say
- Lacks the suspense and originality of De Palma's classics.
- Visually stylish but narratively weak.
- Performances are serviceable, but the plot fails to engage.
Google audience: Audiences found the film to be visually appealing but ultimately disappointing due to its uninspired plot and lack of genuine tension. Many felt it was a rehash of familiar thriller tropes without any fresh perspective.
Fun Fact
The film is a remake of the 2010 French thriller 'Love Crime' (Crime d'amour), also directed by Alain Corneau.
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