Review of Sakuran (2006) by Alyssa N — 28 Sep 2008

This well-acted and entertaining Japanese drama tells the fascinating story of an Edo era courtesan, played by the always interesting and always alluring Anna Tsuchiya. You can tell this whole movie was filmed to be pleasing to the eye, and with Anna's stunning exotic beauty combined with the lush, vibrant period costumes and sets, it certainly succeeds.

The soundtrack, too, is unique and daring enough to stand out, but still fits the scenes well. The story has an epic feel to it, and it really makes you want to root for this girl through the good times and bad.

Unfortunately, the pacing is a little too slow and even awkward at times, and I think a little more time and care in the editing room could have done wonders.