For the Clock397 Words
: The setting, plot and acting make for a must see film
Beginning on April 18, PACE will be showing Memoirs of a Geisha in Hyde as part of their spring film series. Memoirs of a Geisha is a look into the life of a young girl learning the trade through the eyes of an American cinematography lens. Although this film is set in a pre-World War II Japan, this film is nearly entirely from the American perspective. The film was based on the American fictional novel of the same name, written by Arthur Golden. The film kept the American viewpoint with directing by Rob Marshall. Marshall is most famous for his directing of Academy Award winner Chicago. This American viewpoint is reinforced by the simple fact that they speak English throughout the film. Despite the American viewpoint, the scenes are beautifully designed and extremely appealing to the eyes. The elaborately designed sets bring us from rusted rooftops to elaborately colored gardens. The impressive set designed is supported by the beautifully detailed costume design of Colleen Atwood. Memoirs of a Geisha received Academy Awards in Best Achievement in Art Direction, Best Achievement in Cinematography, and Best Achievement in Costume Design, providing a testament to the visually appealing film. The film begins with a young girl being sold by her father into a geisha house. A common misconception is that geishas are simply glorified prostitutes. This is not true. In fact, geishas are known for their performance of customs such as song, dance and tea ceremonies. As a young girl, the failing geisha student is approached by a kindly chairman, played by Ken Watanabe, who reinvigorates her drive to become a geisha. Watanabe reminds the audience how strong of an actor he is through his portrayal of a member of the Japanese ruling class. Through years of training, the young girl learns the various arts of the geisha. As the girl ages, the young actress is replaced with the talented Chinese actress Ziyi Zhang. Despite the fact that Zhang is a Chinese actress playing a Japanese woman, it becomes easy to overlook when she vividly displays the real feelings of fear and pride entering the demanding world of a geisha. Along with a number of fine acting performances, especially the talents of Watanabe and Zhang, the film gives an American view into the world of a geisha. The numerous Academy Awards speak for the beauty of the films cinematography and portrayal of this arcane Japanese tradition.