Takahashi Oden (1848 - January 31, 1879) the main character protagonist of this stunning film was a real life female Japanese murderess who earned notoriety for being the last woman in Japan to be put to death by beheading. The film however does not go there.
Overflowing with melodramatic emotion, a tragic tone permeates the tense B&W atmosphere. There is a fervid pace throughout beginning with a knockout opening scene which instantly highlights the creative film style of director Nobuo Nakagawa. Katsuko Wakasugi is outstanding as the troubled and conflicted femme-fatale who's life is becoming complex and morally unmanageable. Caught up in her personal intrigues and dramas an assortment of men, smitten by her beauty, ensnared by her manipulative passion, all touched by her genuine charm... Highly atmospheric exceptional Film Noir Japanese style.
Highly Recommended
