Invitation of Lust
Invitation of Lust

Movie spotlight

Invitation of Lust

1975
Movie
88 min
Japanese

Hirobe is a lonely man. After witnessing her girlfriend die with a terminal illness, he wanders through the city like a shadow. One day, he meets Masako and they begin an affair. Masako is in an unhappy marriage with Yazawa, who is also cheating on her with a younger lover. The tension builds up to an unforgiving, yet quiet climax...

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Li Han-hsiangGenres: Drama, History, Romance

Plot Summary

This historical drama tells the story of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and his infatuation with Yang Guifei, a concubine whose influence grew to shape the course of the dynasty. The film explores the opulent court life, the Emperor's deep affection, and the political ramifications of his obsession. It delves into the complexities of love, power, and destiny within the imperial setting. The narrative highlights the rise and fall of favor, and the ultimate tragedy that befell both the Emperor and his beloved consort.

Critical Reception

Invitation of Lust is a visually rich historical drama that has been recognized for its lush cinematography and dramatic performances, particularly from its lead actress. While it may not be as widely known as some of Li Han-hsiang's other works, it is often praised for its evocative portrayal of imperial China and the tragic love story at its heart. Audiences appreciate its historical sweep and the emotional depth of the central relationship, though some find the pacing deliberate.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning visual presentation and period detail.

  • Lauded for the compelling romantic and tragic narrative.

  • Applauded for strong performances, especially the lead actress.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for Invitation of Lust (1975) is not readily available or has not been aggregated.

Fun Fact

Director Li Han-hsiang was a prominent figure in Hong Kong cinema, known for his historical epics and his ability to bring Chinese legends and historical events to life on screen.

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