Review of Sakuran (2006) by M M — 12 Sep 2009

Finally got in the mood to watch this; had it recorded once ages ago & started to watch it but just...couldn't be bothered & deleted it. So glad I actually sat down and watched it this time 'round.

This is the story of Kiyoha, a young Japanese girl who is sold to a house & forced into prostitution, & her quest for freedom. You know who she's going to end up with even though it isn't exactly thrust into your face, but it doesn't really matter - her story as an Oiran is intriguing enough on its own.

Anna Tsuchiya (Kiyoha) has a very interesting look about her; first seen her in Dororo but her role wasn't really much to go on. I don't know quite what it is about her (she seems cheeky?) but I like her & hope to see her again soon (& just double checked her on imdb & she's in Kamui Gaiden with Matsuyama Kenichi which I was gonna watch anyway!! YAY for surprises!).

I had no idea Masanobu Ando who played Seiji was Kiriyama in Battle Royale - he was my fave BR character & holy crap the difference in appearance! Totally didn't recognise him.

I remembered Mari Natsuki as the Vice Principal from Nobuta wo Produce, though!

Also: Surprise!Shun was adorkable - I want one! *huggles*.

The main draw card for this film would be the amazing use of colours - from the sets to the costumes - & overall cinematography. It really was just a feast for the eyes.