Cast
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Setsuko Ogawa
as Oyae(お八重)
Hidemi Hara
as Osei no kata(お清の方)
Miyoko Aoyama
as Omiyo(お美代)
Maya Kitami
as Oman(お万)
Michiko Komori
as Ofuji(お藤)
Yoshie Kitsuda
as Ochô no kata(お蝶の方)
Yumi Nakano
as Oshin(おしん)
Sayori Shima
as Gobozu (Nun)(御坊主)
Ryûji Ôizumi
as Shinzô(新三)
Toshihiko Oda
as 間部越前守
Keisuke Yukioka
as Horitatsu(彫辰)
Hiroyuki Mikawa
as Ienobu Tokugawa - Shôgun(将軍家宣)
Crew
Director
- Yukihiko Kondo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Concubine Secrets: Tattoo Contest examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Yukihiko Kondo brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1972, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Concubine Secrets: Tattoo Contest took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 69 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 98 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2366 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 79 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Concubine Secrets: Tattoo Contest shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Turtle Vision, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Concubine Secrets: Tattoo Contest offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Heavens x Candy and Swedish Porno: Dripping of Honey explore similar territory, Concubine Secrets: Tattoo Contest stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 5, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 9m
