Review of Street of Shame (1956) by Daniel K — 11 Feb 2009

I'll stick with Ozu and Kurosawa. This is the best of Mizoguchi's films I've seen thus far, but it falls very short of being a masterpiece in my opinion. He builds up a strong cast of characters and tracks the narrative elements through quite effectively, but it still lacks the emotional punch he seems to be striving for.

I fail to really identify with the characters. I still believe part of this is his camerawork and his tendency to remain at a slight distance. His camera acts as an observer rather than as a participant in the action.

It is an effective film, but unless one had a vested interest in prostitution I can't imagine loving it or being incredibly moved by it. It is apparently an example of art enabling social change though.