Ugetsu (1953) Review in 2025
Ugetsu is a classic Japanese drama film set in the 16th century, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and deception.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
Ugetsu is a must-watch for fans of Japanese cinema, drama, and romance. It's a beautifully crafted film that explores complex themes and features stunning cinematography. Watch it on the big screen or in a quiet room, but make sure to give it your full attention.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of Genjuro, a potter who becomes embroiled in a series of supernatural events after he abandons his wife and child to pursue a wealthy merchant's daughter. As Genjuro's fortunes rise, he becomes increasingly entangled in a web of deceit and illusion, leading to a tragic confrontation with his own desires and the consequences of his actions.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a beautifully crafted exploration of human nature, delving into themes of love, loyalty, and deception. The pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the audience to absorb the complexities of the narrative.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Masayuki Mori delivering a nuanced and compelling performance as Genjuro. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from the female leads.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and nuanced, with Genjuro's inner turmoil and struggle for identity being particularly compelling. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from the female leads.
direction9.50/10
Kenji Mizoguchi's direction is masterful, using long takes and deliberate camera movements to create a sense of tension and unease. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of rural Japan and the eerie atmosphere of the supernatural elements.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Japanese countryside and the use of lighting to create a sense of mood and atmosphere. The black-and-white film stock adds to the overall sense of nostalgia and timelessness.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's themes of love, loyalty, and deception are timeless and universal. The cinematography is stunning, and the direction is masterful. The acting is superb, with standout performances from the lead actors.
Cons
The pacing can be slow, and some viewers may find the supernatural elements unsettling. The film's themes can be complex and open to interpretation, which may not appeal to all viewers.
Notable Quotes
"A man's heart is like a river, always changing and flowing."
"The past is like a ghost, it haunts us forever."
"The wind whispers secrets to the trees."
