sbierly Review of Memoirs of a Geisha

Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

Exceptional film, ignore the naysayers who can't appreciate it

[9/10 · 13 September 2020]

Ignore the critics, who sometimes can't see past their own self-important need to sound smart and then miss what's right in front of their eyes. Not without flaws, I still call this movie is a masterpiece. With age appropriateness in mind, all should see it. It is a window into a different time, and very different place for Westerners. The actors--and acting--is exceptional. The cinematography is magnificent. The music!--we are talking John Williams, Itzhak Perlman, and Yo-Yo Ma here!! The story, often in narration from what I assume is the book (I need to read it), is top notch. My only complaint--voiced by others as well--is that despite the excellent acting by some of the key players and best efforts to portray early 20th century Japan, the fact that they are not Japanese is unmistakable and a bit distracting. Nevertheless, my favorite performances here are from Gong Li and Michelle Yeoh, along with young Chiyo played by Suzuka Ohgo (who is Japanese). I say let the tiny flaws go and just enjoy this important film for what it is.