Rent Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

Beautifully shot and compelling - Memoirs of a Geisha review by CP Customer

We are huge fans of films like 'Flying Daggers', due to the stunning cinematography and great acting. 'Memoirs' is in a similar mould, in terms of these, although it is an absorbing drama rather than an action film. The story of one girl's rise to the top in her profession is absolutely fascinating as is the portrayal of 1930's and 40's Japan. If you are put off foreign language films you will find this one easier, as it is in English. Definitely one to watch again and again.

Don't believe the critics! - Memoirs of a Geisha review by CP Customer

Well every review Ive heard of this slated it - and its not bad at all. Its perhaps slightly light on conveying the book's horrors of Chiyo's upbringing in the geisha houses - but its still good. It would be hard to ever do justice to the book, but it has a good crack and the story remains.

Definitely give it a go.

As Japanese as Yo! Sushi. - Memoirs of a Geisha review by CP Customer

I'm a big fan of Japanese cinema and for me this film was a real disappointment. While there's no denying that the cinematography is often beautiful, the story and choice of cast is a let down. The film is directed by an American, written by an American and filmed in California and is essentially a western view of what Japanese life was like in the 1930's and 40's. As well as the usual cultural clichés and the historical inaccuracy, the casting was really poor with anyone who looks remotely East Asian being cast as Japanese. If you like films like 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' and 'Hero' then you'll probably like it, but if you a fan of Japanese cinema or have a basic grasp of Japanese history and culture then this is one to avoid.