Review of In the Realm of the Senses (1976) by Daniel K — 09 Nov 2009

3: Wow, this was not what I was expecting. Just like Caligula, this could easily be categorized as hard-core pornography. It has an almost single-minded focus on sex, which fits with the characters, who are apparently interested in nothing else.

The fact that this appendage-cleaving story is based on actual events in 1930's Japan makes it even more remarkable. These are obviously people with an unhealthy preoccupation with sex and a bizarre sense of the ownership and the erotic.

The narrow focus of the film lends it a sense of claustrophobia, as we are hardly ever let out into the world. The film is set almost entirely within the confines of a few bedrooms and manicured courtyards.

The production design is superb, as is the case with many Japanese films from the era, but the subject matter and graphic handling of it is something else entirely. It was fascinating in some respects if nothing else, but the continuous exposure to and preoccupation with sexual acts left me a bit desirous of a broader theme.

It didn't really seem to be shock for shocks sake, but it was close at times. Seeing this around the same time as The Girlfriend Experience made me pause to consider the old comparison between prostitutes and actors.

Both films would benefit from approaching some kind of common ground. It is rather remarkable that these actors were willing to go to these lengths to achieve their performances. Lars Von Trier has absolutely nothing on Oshima.

Interesting, but flawed work.