Cast
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Eiko Matsuda
as Sada Abe
Tatsuya Fuji
as Kichizo Ishida
Aoi Nakajima
as Toku
Yasuko Matsui
as Tagawa Inn Manager
Meika Seri
as Matsuko (Yoshidaya Maid)
Kanae Kobayashi
as Old Geisha Kikuryû
Taiji Tonoyama
as Old Beggar
Kyōji Kokonoe
as Teacher Ômiya
Naomi Shiraishi
as Geisha Yaeji
Shinkichi Noda
as Street Restaurant Owner
Komikichi Hori
as Mitsuwa Geisha
Kikuhei Matsunoya
as Hôkan Jester
Akiko Koyama
as Mansaki Geisha
Yuriko Azuma
as Mitsuwa Geisha
Rei Minami
as Mitsuwa Geisha
Crew
Director
- Nagisa Ōshima
Writer
- Nagisa Ōshima
Producer
- Anatole Dauman
Reviews
Sigeki Ogino
To put it bluntly, it was Pasolini and Nagisa Oshima who elevated pornography to an art form. "Ai no Corrida" is a film based on the crazy scandal of a Japanese woman, Sada Abe, who was obsessed with sex. The film is a masterful depiction of sex, and in the uncensored version, viewers will be surprised to find that the sex acts in the film are no different from those in pornographic videos. Some may be put off by the scenes of pubic hair, semen, and lewd displays of genitalia, male and female. However, it is questionable to dismiss the film's unusual artistry on that basis alone. No one can fail to notice that the sex scenes depicted in "Ai no Corrida" are ten thousand times better than those in the erotic "Species". Nagisa Oshima is by far a more aesthetically pleasing director than Akira Kurosawa, and he could have made any number of films that ordinary people would enjoy watching. His talent is unwavering, and this sex-documentary style masterpiece is unique in Asia.
Oct 2, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, In the Realm of the Senses 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 Nagisa Ōshima 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 1976, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of In the Realm of the Senses took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 266 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1976, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While In the Realm of the Senses shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hamog sa Bukang Liwayway, which focuses more on action than character development, In the Realm of the Senses offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Like Stars on Earth and The Last Kiss explore similar territory, In the Realm of the Senses stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 15, 1976
- Runtime: 1h 45m
Where to Watch
