Sansho the Bailiff

Director: Kenji Mizoguchi

Cast: Kinuyo Tanaka, Yoshiaki Hanayagi, Kyôko Kagawa, Eitarô Shindô

(Daiei Studios, 1955) Rated: N/A

US DVD release date: 22 May 2007 (Criterion)

by Michael Buening

Despite his dissatisfaction, that so much of the film works magnificently is evidence of Mizoguchi 's hard driving perfectionism.

I’m sorry--if this film gets a rating of 8, what gets a 10?  This is one of the supreme masterpieces of world cinema--for me personally, the experience of watching it (both times) brought genuine catharsis.  That’s rare for any work of art, and even more so in films.  In my opinion, it’s every bit the equal of Ugetsu.  Mizoguchi’s best films are required viewing for anyone who is interested in the best of this art form.  Do yourself a favor and get it!

Comment by Tom Lane from Ojai, CA — July 3, 2007 @ 8:01 pm

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