Ugetsu

About Ugetsu

Ugetsu, also known as ‘Ugetsu Monogatari’ is a renowned 1953 movie directed by Kenji Mizoguchi. This Japanese drama is adapted from a compilation of classical Japanese stories of the same name by Ueda Akinari.

Set in the civil war-ridden sixteenth century Japan, the protagonist of the film, two aspiring men – a potter and a farmer, leave their wives in the quest for wealth and glory, only to learn that the presence of their loved ones in their lives is the real treasure they should strive for.

Making / Production

A remarkable contribution to Japanese cinema, Ugetsu combines the elements of realism and spiritualism masterfully. The film is known for its long takes and impressive camera movements, majorly influenced by the oneiric and spectral ambiance of traditional Japanese theatre called Noh.

Actors

• Machiko Kyo as Lady Wakasa – Kyo brings forth a captivating performance of a mysterious ghost who lures the potter Genjuro.
• Masayuki Mori as Genjuro – Mori encapsulates the essence of a humble potter turning into a man blinded by ambition and wealth, delivering a compelling performance.
• Kinuyo Tanaka as Miyagi – Depicting the character of a loving wife and mother who awaits her husband’s return, Tanaka gave a subtle and touching performance.
• Sakae Ozawa as Tobei - Tobei's portrayal of a man dreaming of becoming a samurai, Ozawa delivered a pitch-perfect performance that beautifully depicted fantasy and folly.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie is based on two stories: 'The House in the Thicket' and 'The Lust of the White Serpent' from Ueda Akinari's book 'Ugetsu Monogatari'.
• The film was shot on location at Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
• It was initially supposed to be shot in color, but due to budget constraints, the production ultimately decided on black-and-white.

Awards

Ugetsu has received several awards and nominations, notably winning the Silver Lion Award at the 1953 Venice Film Festival. It also received a nomination for an Academy Honorary Award at the 26th Academy Awards in 1954.

Quotes

• "Man is a genius when dreaming, a fool when awake."
• "One cannot throw away luck as if it were a piece of unwanted iron."
• "Isn't life under the sun just a dream?"

Music, Soundtrack

• Music was composed by the legendary Fumio Hayasaka, whose work added depth to the overall atmosphere of the film.
• The attention-grabbing score of the main theme 'Flute Concert of the Noh Drama’ lifts the supernatural aura of the film.