Hiratemiki

This silent film tells the story of a young woman named Hana who becomes entangled in a complex web of love and societal expectations. She grapples with her feelings for two very different men, one a wealthy benefactor and the other a struggling artist. Her choices are further complicated by the rigid social norms of the era, leading to a dramatic and poignant conclusion.

As a silent film from 1928, 'Hiratemiki' is primarily of historical and academic interest. Contemporary reviews are scarce, but it is recognized as an important early work in Japanese cinema, showcasing the developing narrative and stylistic conventions of the period.

• An early example of Japanese melodrama.

• Features poignant performances by its lead actors.

• Illustrates the societal constraints faced by women in the late 1920s Japan.

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Kinuyo Tanaka, who stars as Hana, would go on to become one of Japan's most celebrated actresses and later one of the first female directors in Japanese cinema.