Review of Conflagration (1958) by Martin T — 18 Oct 2009

Raizô Ichikawa plays Mizoguchi very well, but much is lost in the transition from page to screen. Without the benefit of voice-over narration, we lose all the internal monologue that is crucial to understanding the character.

We're left with a series of events that often feel disconnected and unmotivated. However, the cinematography is terrific. The music selection is compelling as well. The film has a distinct oddness that appeals to me, but some more explanation would have been welcome.