Street of Shame
Street of Shame

Movie spotlight

Street of Shame

1956
Movie
87 min
Japanese

Follows five sex workers employed at a Japanese brothel while the nation debates the passage of an anti-prostitution law.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Director: Kenji MizoguchiGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

Street of Shame offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of five prostitutes working in Tokyo's Yoshiwara district. The film interweaves their individual stories, revealing their dreams, struggles, and the societal pressures that shape their fates. Each woman navigates complex relationships and hopes for a better future, whether through marriage, escape, or simply survival.

Critical Reception

Kenji Mizoguchi's final film, 'Street of Shame,' was met with critical acclaim for its sensitive and humanistic portrayal of marginalized women. It was praised for its compassionate direction and strong performances, though its frank depiction of prostitution also sparked some controversy.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its empathetic and non-judgmental portrayal of its characters.

  • Lauded as a poignant and moving final masterpiece from a legendary director.

  • Noted for its strong performances and Mizoguchi's signature visual style.

Google audience: N/A

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1957 Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

This was Kenji Mizoguchi's final film before his death in 1957; he reportedly worked on it even while suffering from leukemia.

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