A Geisha (1953)

"A geisha's lie is not a real lie"

Mizoguchi Kenji once again explored the plight of women, especially those who served men in A Geisha. Ideally, well trained geishas entertained their male customers with their musical skills and genteel company, however, a barely concealed underbelly of prostitution bore out a more unsavory livelihood for many of the “Intangible Cultural Assets.”

Eiko winds her way through the streets of the Gion to find her deceased mother’s best friend, Miyoharu. Unwanted by her father and wanted too much by her uncle, Eiko has no place else to turn. She begs Miyoharu to help her become a geisha. Miyoharu gives in and pays for Eiko’s extensive training. When it’s time for Eiko’s debut Miyoharu is forced to borrow a substantial amount of money from the teahouse madame not knowing who is financing Eiko behind the scenes. The two women who have thus far refused to accept patrons may not have a choice when their circumstances turn dire.

This topic was used in a variety of films featuring geishas and bar hostesses. Women who accepted patrons or who turned tricks on the side seemed to get ahead in the night world of Japan. Women were interchangeable depending on whether a man wanted a newer or older model. One young geisha had a 62-year-old patron her mother had arranged. These men were not used to being told no and often took what they wanted. Eiko mentioned a new law that protected geishas, but everyone knew it was in principle only. The “living works of art” were simply told to “close your eyes.”

Kogure Michiyo gave a moving performance as the veteran geisha. One scene as Miyoharu slowly removed her kimono in order to do what she dreaded was silently heartrending. Wakao Ayako’s Eiko went from a naïve and exuberant maiko to a young woman who saw the shining beauty of the geisha world pulled back to reveal the money and depravity underneath. Regardless of what the clients did, the women were expected to be compliant.

Mizoguchi created an aesthetically graceful film of floating geishas that also showed the crass and contractual side of humanity. While the central subject of a woman’s plight and criminal lack of options had been covered before, often by Mizoguchi himself, A Geisha stood out with the bond between Miyoharu and Eiko. The loyal and protective relationship the women forged together as they faced horrendous obstacles was well worth watching this film.

10 June 2025
Trigger warning: Attempted sexual assault

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