The World of Geisha 1973
Set against the turbulent backdrop of early 20th-century Japan—marked by the October Revolution, rice riots fueled by hyperinflation, and the 1918 Siberian expedition—*The World of Geisha (1973)* follows Shinsuke, a carefree brothel owner who remains...
Director: Tatsumi Kumashiro
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The World of Geisha (1973) about?
This 1973 Japanese drama-comedy follows Shinsuke, a brothel owner who remains oblivious to the political and economic turmoil of 1917–1918 Japan. While riots rage and military expeditions unfold, he indulges in the company of geishas, creating a sharp contrast between personal decadence and societal collapse. The film uses humor and irony to explore themes of escapism and moral detachment.
Who directed The World of Geisha?
Tatsumi Kumashiro directed *The World of Geisha*. Known for his bold, socially conscious films in the 1970s, Kumashiro brought a distinctive blend of drama and satire to the project.
Who stars in The World of Geisha?
The film stars Junko Miyashita, Eimei Esumi, Gō Awazu, Moeko Ezawa, and Naomi Oka in central roles.
Is The World of Geisha (1973) worth watching?
Given its concise 72-minute runtime and unique blend of drama and comedy, *The World of Geisha* offers a fascinating glimpse into 1970s Japanese cinema's penchant for bold storytelling. While not a mainstream hit, its satirical take on escapism in turbulent times makes it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven films with historical depth.
How long is The World of Geisha?
The World of Geisha runs for 72 minutes.
About The World of Geisha (1973) — A Satirical Drama of Escapism in Turbulent Times
Set against the turbulent backdrop of early 20th-century Japan—marked by the October Revolution, rice riots fueled by hyperinflation, and the 1918 Siberian expedition—*The World of Geisha (1973)* follows Shinsuke, a carefree brothel owner who remains blissfully detached from the chaos swirling around him. Directed by Tatsumi Kumashiro, this atmospheric blend of drama and dark comedy immerses viewers in a world where personal indulgence clashes with historical upheaval. With a runtime of just 72 minutes, the film offers a sharp, satirical snapshot of a society on the brink, where geishas and their clients navigate a world of fleeting pleasures amid uncertainty. Kumashiro's direction infuses the narrative with a mix of sensuality and irony, capturing the decadence of the era while poking fun at human nature's refusal to confront larger realities.
The Japanese film scene of the 1970s was known for pushing boundaries, and *The World of Geisha* is no exception. Starring Junko Miyashita, Eimei Esumi, and Gō Awazu, the cast delivers performances that balance humor and pathos, grounding the film's more absurd moments in relatable human flaws. The story's themes of escapism and moral detachment resonate particularly well in a time of global instability, making it as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.