GRADE: 9
A tragic social drama set in post war Japan and concerns a lonely woman trying to find purpose and stability in a devastated Tokyo.
Original Title: Ukigumo
Director: Mikio Naruse
Country of Origin: Japan
Thoughts:
Hideko Takamine is absolutely radiant and, along with Masayuki Mori’s noir-ish vibe, gives the film an air of the classic Hollywood era. This could be Bogart and Bergman.
The film marries Western and Eastern sensibilities magically… Like Japan itself.
Though clearly melodramatic, there’s something intense and rich under the surface that delivers a deeper portrait the sadness and desperation of post-war Japan.
Beautiful cinematography. I loved all the compartmentalized interiors and rain-drenched exteriors. An exquisite film to look at.