IM REICH DER SINNE – IN THE REALM OF THE SENSES

A film by Nagisa Ōshima
1976 – Japan, 105 min.
Starring Eiko Matsuda, Tatsuya Fuji, Aoi Nakajima, Yasuko Matsui, Meika Seri

Kichizō is the owner of a geisha house where Abe Sada works as a maid and prostitute. A passionate relationship develops between the two. Kichizō eventually leaves his family to be with Sada full-time—he becomes more and more obsessed with her. Cut off from the outside world, the two give themselves over entirely to boundless sexual desire. Together, they plunge ever deeper into the world of passion, to the point of ecstasy and pain. Their lust breaks every taboo and ultimately leads to Kichizō’s death, as Sada kills him during lovemaking at his own request. *In the Realm of the Senses* (Ai no korīda) is the most globally renowned film by Japanese director Nagisa Ōshima. Upon its release, it caused a scandal and was temporarily banned in many places. The film is based on a true story involving Abe Sada, which unfolded in a similar manner in Japan in 1936. Festivals & Awards: Cannes Film Festival (Competition), British Film Institute Awards (Sutherland Trophy), Chicago International Film Festival (Special Jury Prize), New York Film Festival, Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Golden Horse Fantastic Film Festival (Taiwan)