Memoirs of a Geisha
Columbia Pictures | Release Date: December 9, 2005
6.7
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 209 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
130
Mixed:
45
Negative:
34
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User scoreBy dateMost helpful
9
NedRyerson1Feb 16, 2012
Memoirs of a Geisha is a special movie because of two things, first is not a stereotype love story, and it shows very accurately a piece of Japanese culture.
Starting by the love story, here we see an orphan girl taken against her will to anMemoirs of a Geisha is a special movie because of two things, first is not a stereotype love story, and it shows very accurately a piece of Japanese culture.
Starting by the love story, here we see an orphan girl taken against her will to an okiya in order to become a geisha, looking for something that she cannot have, true love. In this point is where this sentimental story stands apart from the rest. When talking about a geisha, we refer to a person with the purpose of entertaining a man, but without falling in love.
The illustration of the Japanese culture in this film is also significant, some concepts that demonstrate it are: first, the ability and capacity of improving life are determinate by the year of birth and the element that rules a person. Then we have the idea of making everything a ritual, putting aside the routine. Finally, the special meaning that gives the Japanese nation to the geishas; who are known as artist not prostitutes, and selling their skills not their body. This idea evolved with the years, until the war starts; with the arrival of the American troops the materialism is unleashed and the ancient culture is corrupted.
With strong performances by Zhang Ziyi (highlighting the scene of the presentation as a geisha), Ken Watanabe, Koji Yakusho and Gong Li, this film treats a beautiful and mysterious subject, accompanied by an amazing screenplay and overwhelming music. It is unbelievable that a Hollywood production could capture a bit of the oriental culture.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
All this user's reviews
3
TyroneMoviemanMar 16, 2007
The film is well acted, over-dramatic, and is a visual masterpiece. But the Hollywood soap opera based on a Japanese story overrun with a badly spoken English screenplay using Chinese actors is unavoidably silly. The film disserves to be The film is well acted, over-dramatic, and is a visual masterpiece. But the Hollywood soap opera based on a Japanese story overrun with a badly spoken English screenplay using Chinese actors is unavoidably silly. The film disserves to be honored for its superb visual costumes, make-up and design, but unfortunately that is it.… Expand
2 of 4 users found this helpful
5
mumboJun 11, 2006
ziyi zhang is a mediocre actress at best and is not respected at all in china, unlike gong li who is. Ziyi zhang is only famous for her looks (which arent that fantastic either)
1 of 2 users found this helpful
10
AngieF.Apr 4, 2008
this is an amazing film that protrays Japan in a terrible time period of war with such beauty and grace. i love this movie.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
8
NiviI.Jan 30, 2006
Considering the comments about the oriental casting in hollywood films, I feel that more than the fact that chinese actors are playing japanse characters, overall its a film that encapsulates the essence of a "worth-watching" film. The film Considering the comments about the oriental casting in hollywood films, I feel that more than the fact that chinese actors are playing japanse characters, overall its a film that encapsulates the essence of a "worth-watching" film. The film may not portray the characteristics of a typical japanese geisha, but at the same time portrays it in such a way that the viewers are intrigued and keep them wanting for more. Prior to this movie I had no idea what a geisha was or they even existed for that matter. but this film has made me want to read more about them. From a purely cinematic view, John william's scores are absolutely wonderful and gives a whole new meaning to east-based movies. The elaborate costumes are sure to catch one's eyes. the visual appeal of the entire movie is high. The physical landscapes are very convincing even though certain scenes were shot in South California. Overall this movie is worth-watching.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
abirdMay 9, 2006
The movie is visually delightful and the sountrack eases your senses. It might throw up a few good ideas for interior designers!! But it is no longer is a 'memoir', that the book was. The treatment is melodramatic and immature. The movie is visually delightful and the sountrack eases your senses. It might throw up a few good ideas for interior designers!! But it is no longer is a 'memoir', that the book was. The treatment is melodramatic and immature. Maybe they should have struck to the book more as understanding a 'Geisha's life is no easy job.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
PaulJan 9, 2006
I always find movies about different cultures interesting. The movie almost felt like a documentary because I knew NOTHING about geishas before this movie. I did enjoy it though. The movie did kinda drag by the end, but there was a lot of I always find movies about different cultures interesting. The movie almost felt like a documentary because I knew NOTHING about geishas before this movie. I did enjoy it though. The movie did kinda drag by the end, but there was a lot of plot to cover. The lead actress (both young and old versions) did very well. This movie will probably go over better with the female population, but males can enjoy it too (i did). Just sit back and enjoy the beautiful costumes and sets.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
SamR.Jan 9, 2006
I said "OK, let's go see a 'chick flick'. I owe you one." My vote for mediocrity. Great photography --- lush; it's best feature. Alas, this is a boring movie. All style and little substance with garbled dialogue to boot. I said "OK, let's go see a 'chick flick'. I owe you one." My vote for mediocrity. Great photography --- lush; it's best feature. Alas, this is a boring movie. All style and little substance with garbled dialogue to boot. Next time we can see a movie that reviewers and this critic agree is worth seeing.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelS.Dec 10, 2005
Great Cinematography and the 3 Chinese actresses as Japanese was pulled off masterfully. From someone who's lived in Japan, Zhang Ziyi's performance was breathtaking.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
TheresaM.Dec 20, 2005
Excellent writing and cinematography! love the actors. Powerful!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
WendyDec 23, 2005
Not so memorable because I fell asleep. It was that uninteresting. Dull.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
JeffA.Dec 29, 2005
This movie was better than a sleeping pill. Im being generous with a 2 rating.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MelissaV.Dec 30, 2005
Stunningly beautiful and deeply touching.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JoanH.Dec 6, 2005
Beautiful.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
IanQ>Dec 8, 2005
The leading actress, Ziyi, is astonishing! An Oscar-worthy.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
MeaT.Dec 9, 2005
The dance looks like a Vegas show.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
richardb.Dec 9, 2005
Beautiful women, beautiful sets. Its like you're looking at Vogue Japan. But then the women open their mouths, and things get ugly. Its not that the English dialogue is poor, its that these performers, for the most part, speak English Beautiful women, beautiful sets. Its like you're looking at Vogue Japan. But then the women open their mouths, and things get ugly. Its not that the English dialogue is poor, its that these performers, for the most part, speak English in an almost cliche way. Couldnt they have hired Lucy Liu or Sandra Oh? There's something crazy about hiring "English as a Second Language" actors for an American movie. And then it turns out most of them are Chinese playing Japanese! What kind of faux authenticity was Rob Marshall shooting for? And honestly, the love story boils down to a pederast loves a baby hooker. Isnt that romantic.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
BillyS.Jan 1, 2006
If only the Geisha had a memory of a Crouching Tiger or even a Flying Dagger or two it might have given her Memoirs something worth making into a major motion picture instead of spending 100 million for cinematography, art direction andIf only the Geisha had a memory of a Crouching Tiger or even a Flying Dagger or two it might have given her Memoirs something worth making into a major motion picture instead of spending 100 million for cinematography, art direction and costume design Oscar nominations.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
JeffM.Oct 1, 2006
I respected the book for its vivid depiction of that era in Japan's history, but was never truly entertained because of its emotional coldness. The film suffers from the same problem, only more so. Beautiful to look at, but never truly I respected the book for its vivid depiction of that era in Japan's history, but was never truly entertained because of its emotional coldness. The film suffers from the same problem, only more so. Beautiful to look at, but never truly involving. Ziyi Zhang truly shines though.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
GavinM.Jan 22, 2006
despite what some of the other reviewers have said, i think this has a fair bit of depth - certainly much more than something like house of flying daggers. i thoroughly enjoyed it. the score is fantastic and the world of the geishas is captivating.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ClintM.Jan 3, 2006
The music, the costumes, the cinematography ... they're all stunningly beautiful! The actors are great as usual (Watanabe, Yeoh, and Zang are the best Asia has to offer and rank up there with the best of dramatic actors, in my opinion). The music, the costumes, the cinematography ... they're all stunningly beautiful! The actors are great as usual (Watanabe, Yeoh, and Zang are the best Asia has to offer and rank up there with the best of dramatic actors, in my opinion). The only downside is what you see in the reviews, a lack of depth, maybe? That's not to say that we don't care about the actors or the outcome, but it could have been tied together better. The movie seemed to lose a little steam in the last 1/2 also but I didn't walk away feeling cheated or let down. It was a nice story and a joy to watch.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DaphneC.Jan 3, 2006
This movie wasone of the best adaptations from book to film. I was thoroughly engrossed in the stunning cinema photography and the fine acting by young Sayurin in particular. The music score was moving as well as the romantic story.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MeatJan 4, 2006
I really liked this movie and thought is was entertainig. Also, I don't understand the backlash of critcs and some of the viewers. Hello! Its a story picture about characters. Those knuckleheads who were bored probably like 50 Cent I really liked this movie and thought is was entertainig. Also, I don't understand the backlash of critcs and some of the viewers. Hello! Its a story picture about characters. Those knuckleheads who were bored probably like 50 Cent movies and comedies about 40 yr old virgins.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
LordMetzenFeb 17, 2006
I can't understand why a lot of people complain about the chinese playing japanese characters, and speaking in inglish and stuff, if you don't like that kind of movie, just don't go to see it. It's a chick flick, and its good...
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
JenB.Mar 2, 2006
Well shot, wonderful costumes etc but the visuals couldn't rescue what is essentially melodrama. One dimensional almost cartoonish characters, terrible acting and it just plain plodded along. Disappointing really as the book was great.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
HasanA.Mar 23, 2006
A great film... very artistic... took my breath away.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JenniferW.Apr 20, 2006
This was a visual masterpiece that stuck true to the Golden's novel. People who condemn it went into watching the movies not knowing the type of story it is. While the back of the DVD describes it as a Cinderalla story, and that is This was a visual masterpiece that stuck true to the Golden's novel. People who condemn it went into watching the movies not knowing the type of story it is. While the back of the DVD describes it as a Cinderalla story, and that is true, it is not the point of the story. Yes, it's what drives Chiyo to continue on the path, but what choice did she have. Besides it's not going to be a cheesey romance. People need to have some understanding of Japanese culture, especially during that time period. That society in Kyouto is beyond the understanding of most Americans if they don't care to look into the history behind it. Yes, it had American flair but what did you expect? This film was wonderfully done and only the ignorant condemn it and what it represents. (As for the Asians who condemn this story I make no remark. They would know it better then most Americans. They are the only ones who have a right to.)… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
markApr 7, 2006
Costumes were amazing. visually, the production value was there... the english was painful but zhang zi yi's looks didnt make it horrible. i wish they just casted japanese people and spoke in their native tongue with subs. the book was Costumes were amazing. visually, the production value was there... the english was painful but zhang zi yi's looks didnt make it horrible. i wish they just casted japanese people and spoke in their native tongue with subs. the book was much better.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JanetL.May 4, 2006
Fans of the book will probably enjoy this visually stunning movie. But why does Hollywood always have to put in a dig at Americans? In the book, the Americans were not particularly odious, and the Minister was Japanese. In the movie, he is a Fans of the book will probably enjoy this visually stunning movie. But why does Hollywood always have to put in a dig at Americans? In the book, the Americans were not particularly odious, and the Minister was Japanese. In the movie, he is a boorish "Ugly American," and of course, the Americans are all "bastards."… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
MattyManDec 10, 2005
The movie is visually beautiful. Amazing costumes, scenery, etc. But as the movie stands out by itself, it shows out to be a dramatic "Showgirls", a slimy romantic story, a soap-opera launched straight to theaters.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
KCDec 13, 2005
It should be banned in Japan because of the use of Chinese actresses - the same 3 leads in all Asian films - portraying of all things profound in the Japanese culture, Geishas. No one who funded this project had the intelligence to think of It should be banned in Japan because of the use of Chinese actresses - the same 3 leads in all Asian films - portraying of all things profound in the Japanese culture, Geishas. No one who funded this project had the intelligence to think of how this looks to the Asian audience because it is white-washed from America.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
NormaT.Dec 16, 2005
The three main actresses derserve to win oscars.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DuncanMDec 17, 2005
Like a sumptuous, lavish, stunningly produced Lifetime movie. A thin plot, terrible dialogue, poor acting but incredible to look at.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
SuzanneDDec 10, 2005
Ugh. Not what I was expecting. The acting is awful. How was this ever touted as an awards worthy film? Blech!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
BonnieK.Dec 27, 2005
Loved it!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
KevinDec 3, 2005
Oscar-Worthy. Gong Li and Ziyi Zhang once again prove that they are the greatest actresses in the world.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
CliffDec 7, 2005
The costumes, cinematography, and musical score are top-notch. The story, however, meanders and there's never any real emotional pull to make us care about any of the characters. It seemed much longer than it actually is.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
StephenDec 9, 2005
Anyone else notice that the lead musical score (done by Hans Zimmer) was EXACTLY the same as the one done in "The Last Samurai"? What a disappointment.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
SendianS.Jan 1, 2006
Very ordinary movie. Don't waste your money. If you must see it then wait until it is playing in the $1 dollar movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DLJan 2, 2006
I loved it. I think you need to free your mind from choppy English and focus on the story, set in beautiful scenery just before WWII. It is a story of perseverance and survival in the strict Japanese community of geisha. And a predictable I loved it. I think you need to free your mind from choppy English and focus on the story, set in beautiful scenery just before WWII. It is a story of perseverance and survival in the strict Japanese community of geisha. And a predictable yet unexpected happy ending. I thought it was wonderful. Critics have to be more open minded and understand that passion is not in love scenes and sexual acts, but sometimes lies in silence and even absense of emotion.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MarcD.Jan 22, 2006
I was put off by the bad reviews...but upon viewing it myself, I was pleasantly surprised. Not bad.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
EdwinK.Oct 3, 2006
Pretty good movie, at times impressive cinematography (opening scene), a very promising young "lead" actress, a movie I would be glad to see again.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
MarcoJan 7, 2006
Not only does the film fail to stay true to the book, it is a disgrace to it. If you have read the book you'll see what I mean. Obviously I did not expect the film to be just like the book, but its just ridiculous. The film seems to Not only does the film fail to stay true to the book, it is a disgrace to it. If you have read the book you'll see what I mean. Obviously I did not expect the film to be just like the book, but its just ridiculous. The film seems to miss everything the book is about, it does not capture the life of Saguri or of a geisha for that matter. It is a pity that Rob Marshall had to destroy such a great story.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
RobertoFeb 26, 2006
a complete bore. hollywood meets contemporary Asian film-making and makes a mess of it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ElizabethC.Mar 1, 2006
Yes, it's melodramatic and not very subtle. But as a fairytale, it works and is quite entertaining. The scenery is beautiful and so is the score, featuring Yo Yo Ma and Itzhak Pearlman. And Gong Li plays the Wicked Stepsister role with Yes, it's melodramatic and not very subtle. But as a fairytale, it works and is quite entertaining. The scenery is beautiful and so is the score, featuring Yo Yo Ma and Itzhak Pearlman. And Gong Li plays the Wicked Stepsister role with real relish.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MeamO.Apr 15, 2006
great movie! yes they are chinese actresses but then they pulled it off. they'r great! i think it's the most romantic film I've ever watched..to those who criticize it wrongly, you should I think watch it several times, I great movie! yes they are chinese actresses but then they pulled it off. they'r great! i think it's the most romantic film I've ever watched..to those who criticize it wrongly, you should I think watch it several times, I think you just didn't listen to the dialogue, you just didn' get it. you should read between the lines also. the script was fantastic! Ziyi and the other casts performance are incredible stellar. two-thumbs up to you guys! trully, each of the leading actors and actresses deserve more than an oscard award. great! they are really Asia's best!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
TonyB.May 21, 2006
Stunningly designed, beautifully photographed, marvelously costumed, sharply edited, expertly scored, very well acted...and yet not nearly all it could have been.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
PatC.Jun 30, 2006
An unusual but beautifully told story that stays with you.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ErichUJul 17, 2006
Excellent movie
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DudeNov 6, 2007
GREAT MOVIE! I love it. Obviously, Japanese actresses aren't "ALL" that. And the history of geisha in Japan isn't all that glamorous anyways, so does it matter if the movie use Japanese actresses? Asians are asians. So for a movie GREAT MOVIE! I love it. Obviously, Japanese actresses aren't "ALL" that. And the history of geisha in Japan isn't all that glamorous anyways, so does it matter if the movie use Japanese actresses? Asians are asians. So for a movie on Eiffel Towel that's to be played in English, do all the actors/actresses need to be French? It doesn't matter, as long as they look Caucasian. Same for this Memoir of Geisha movie, as long as the actresses/actors are Asian, that's all that mattered.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BethM.Feb 10, 2007
I thought that the film was fantastic! All those people who don't are worthless and pathetic they obviously didn't see the beauty and magnificence in the movie! Everything about it was amazing and so what if it was in english so I thought that the film was fantastic! All those people who don't are worthless and pathetic they obviously didn't see the beauty and magnificence in the movie! Everything about it was amazing and so what if it was in english so what if the leading role actress was Chinease! It was and will always be a brilliant film that will stun everyone into awe!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RashkoT.Jul 30, 2007
A pure and spectacular masterpiece with great,exciting storyline backed up by a brilliant John Williams's soundtrack!What can we ask more?
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GizelleDec 11, 2005
Zhang Ziyi in magnificent, It's time to have an asian actrss as an oscar-winner!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PrudenceK.Dec 1, 2005
Beautiful film!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
MarvinB.Dec 14, 2005
This entire movie is one tremendous mistake. Three phenomenal actresses, and the worst outcome imaginable-Total boredom.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
ChaseP.Dec 15, 2005
This is one of the worst movies of the year. I think that Arthur Golden could have done a MUCH better job with this movie. The one does not even deserve to be put out in the theaters OR out to buy because it is a waste of your money!!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
IGiveUpDec 22, 2005
And the NO DOZE AWARD goes to.... Why do they make this prosaic mundane sorry excuses for a movie? Avoid unless of course you need to catch up on your sleep?
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
michaell.Dec 23, 2005
Really beautifully done.....but couldn't wait for it to end. any film maker ever here of "short and sweet"?
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JimW.Dec 25, 2005
Many reviews missed the point ... to expect a movie about a Geisha to be as "exciting" as "Chicago" is to pan the Mormon Tabernacle Choir becasue they can't dance like Madonna in their videos.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
minl.Dec 28, 2005
Great culture.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
MarcK.Dec 29, 2005
I almost avoided this picture, as the critical reviews were so bad. But I had recently read the book for the sole purpose of being able to then watch the movie, so I went with very low expectations. Instead, I saw one of the best films of I almost avoided this picture, as the critical reviews were so bad. But I had recently read the book for the sole purpose of being able to then watch the movie, so I went with very low expectations. Instead, I saw one of the best films of the year. I'm really not sure why critics didn't "get" this film. Maybe reading the book first helped me to understand things better, and maybe they didn't read the book! And while not 100% faithful to the book (what movie is?), it was remarkably close. Finally, an earlier comment asking why Lucy Liu or Sandra Oh weren't starring in the movie instead of Zhang Ziyi or Gong Li is one of the funnies/most ridiculous things I've read on ANY MetaCritic board in a long time.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
LarryK.Dec 29, 2005
Like watching paint dry.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CoryC.Dec 29, 2005
Best moive of the year. Critics are complaining just because its in English.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ZaneD.Dec 29, 2005
Better if the characters spoke in Japanese. It also emphasized on the less-important scenes longer then the important ones. Other then that, not bad
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
enditDec 30, 2005
I expected so much more! Instead, all I got was a LONG (2+ hour) boring movie that put me to sleep. I didn't like most of the characters. Depressing movie too.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
yoshies.Dec 31, 2005
This is an occult film for Japanese, I am glad that a Japanese actress did not play Sayuri. If you want know the real Japanese mannered the kimono, I recommend you see "the twilight samurai" academy award nominee 2004 for best foreigh This is an occult film for Japanese, I am glad that a Japanese actress did not play Sayuri. If you want know the real Japanese mannered the kimono, I recommend you see "the twilight samurai" academy award nominee 2004 for best foreigh language film. A Japanese actress Rie shows you how to wear kimonos and graceful movement.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AmandaDec 4, 2005
Had a sneak preview. Beautiful and mesmerising movie. Any doubt about casting the three Chinese lead actresses in their roles as beautiful geisha is totally dispelled by their powerful performances, notably Li Gong. No wonder she has long Had a sneak preview. Beautiful and mesmerising movie. Any doubt about casting the three Chinese lead actresses in their roles as beautiful geisha is totally dispelled by their powerful performances, notably Li Gong. No wonder she has long been regarded as the darling of international arthouse.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
NoamiT.Dec 6, 2005
Beautiful and Oscar-worthy.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ClaireL.Dec 6, 2005
Best film of the year. Highly recommended. If you want to know what great acting is, please watch Gong Li and Zi Yi in this movie and all their other movies. They are the greatest actresses in the world.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CatherineC.Dec 7, 2005
Beautiful! Ziyi's performance proves that she is the most talented actress in the world. Her character is not supposed to express her emotions, pain and suffering openly. You can feel her character's pain through her restrained and Beautiful! Ziyi's performance proves that she is the most talented actress in the world. Her character is not supposed to express her emotions, pain and suffering openly. You can feel her character's pain through her restrained and deep performance. Gong Li is a powerhouse. She deserves an oscar.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
michaelDec 8, 2005
2 hours of my life i will never get back!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
[Anonymous]Jan 22, 2006
From a Japanese point of view, I did not understand the director's intention to make this kind of movie using Chinese people as main actoresses. I was quite embarassed and disappointed to see it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
ChrissyFeb 11, 2006
Some flashy costuming and few exra dramatic moments are placed in this bore-fest for a bit of pizazz. It has little drive, and almost no delivery when it comes to entertainment. Not so much of bad, as simply boring.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
DavidMar 18, 2006
I have to admit, I went in expecting the worst, but came out generally satisfied with what I was given. This film is beautiful to behold and features a wonderfully radiant performance by Ziyi Zhang. In my eyes, she was the standout, as her I have to admit, I went in expecting the worst, but came out generally satisfied with what I was given. This film is beautiful to behold and features a wonderfully radiant performance by Ziyi Zhang. In my eyes, she was the standout, as her blue/gray eyes conveyed a sea of emotions. I also appreciated the relationship between Ziyi's character and Michelle Yeoh, who also played her role with grace and dignity. I could've done without the Gong Li character, though. To her credit, she played the role with a lot of flair. Visually, this film is absolutely breathtaking, as is John Williams' score, which actually gave the film the extra bit of emotion it needed. All in all, not nearly as bad as most critics have said.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
HueG.May 28, 2006
a dazaling look into a girls life from childhood to young womanhood.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
AmurabiM.Jul 14, 2006
Despite all its sumptuous production, its luxurious feeling and the exotic of its theme, "Memoirs of a Geisha" feels a little bit like a disappointment. This epic production feels condemned since its beginning: dark, melodramatic and Despite all its sumptuous production, its luxurious feeling and the exotic of its theme, "Memoirs of a Geisha" feels a little bit like a disappointment. This epic production feels condemned since its beginning: dark, melodramatic and superficial depth as the young Sayuri is kidnapped. But, all the movie feels like that. There are not depth, achievement, heart. It feels like soulless, like some standard epic from the 40s without charm. Rob Marshall fails miserably and give the same charisma to bring "Chicago" to break a hit. The failure is the occasionally boring and, overall, quiet adaptation. The story feels like a cheap melodrama, with the same pretensions of a latin soap opera, but with some kimonos. There are no passion, romance, love. This is just a compendium of great artistic values of production involved in a worthless drama. But the film worth because of that. This is an epic well filmed, well achieved with stunning triumphs in acting, cinematography, music (williams is noy corny!!!), costume and production design, etc. But despite all its beauty has very poor narrative structure than it turns this like a poor cliched melodramatic bombastic film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
SamS.Mar 16, 2007
The first 45 minutes were awful despite some very beautiful scenes. they were in the perspective of a terrible 8 year old Chinese actress and consisted of repetitive escapes and over-dramatic soundtrack filled with slow-moving bordom and The first 45 minutes were awful despite some very beautiful scenes. they were in the perspective of a terrible 8 year old Chinese actress and consisted of repetitive escapes and over-dramatic soundtrack filled with slow-moving bordom and confused exploitation of great cinematography. That is a run-on sentence that summarizes how I felt about the start of first 45 minutes of the film. However after that it moved into the life of the older woman. and that is a beatiful, much faster, and exrodinary story that i like alot but it has its flaws. The acting is much better for the remaining 1 hour and 45 minutes (the film is 2.5 hours) and the story is very moving and amazing at times. The movie is the most beautiful movie i have ever seen. but it is not one of the best. its a Chinese "big fish" that is way too drawn out yet at times superb. It earns its appearance nominees at the oscars. 3.3 stars.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
peterr.Dec 14, 2005
Memoirs of a Geisha is a beautifully filmed movie. It is a definate must see on the big screen. An accomplishment for hollywood to aspire in making this film. Wonderful performances by a outstanding cast of actors. A look at the hidden life Memoirs of a Geisha is a beautifully filmed movie. It is a definate must see on the big screen. An accomplishment for hollywood to aspire in making this film. Wonderful performances by a outstanding cast of actors. A look at the hidden life of the desire of a Geisha's dream for freedom and choice. A depliction of romance, and desire.… Expand
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5
JoeJDec 22, 2005
Casting's the least of its problems. Charlton Heston played a Mexican in "Touch of Evil," and that picture's reputation has grown pretty well, don't you think? No, the problem here is STIFF BOREDOM. Beautiful to look at, but Casting's the least of its problems. Charlton Heston played a Mexican in "Touch of Evil," and that picture's reputation has grown pretty well, don't you think? No, the problem here is STIFF BOREDOM. Beautiful to look at, but then again, so is a vacation tour. Take away the eye candy and the characters, story, dialogue, it can be pretty awful and at best dull.… Expand
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9
sashal.Dec 29, 2005
Well, i thought it was pretty riviting. and beautiful.
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6
RobertS.Dec 29, 2005
So much potential, yet ending up like a made-for-TV movie.
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8
darkokidSep 17, 2010
i simply love the movie. the images the atmosphere the music is so exotic and it makes you wanna be there. the acting was great, the costumes were just incredible. i dont know much about the japanese history and habits, but after seeing thisi simply love the movie. the images the atmosphere the music is so exotic and it makes you wanna be there. the acting was great, the costumes were just incredible. i dont know much about the japanese history and habits, but after seeing this movie i wanna know more and more. it really is a wonderful movie and i think everyone should see it because its worth it! i loved the plot, the fact that sayuri wanted to become a geisha to meet the chairman again, i find that totally sweet. and of couse the "forbiden love" never gets old… Expand
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8
pgmarkDec 16, 2010
Been a while since I have seen this but I remember I liked it so much I want to watch it again now. I'm so glad they didn't feel like they had to have some flying karate master in here with a sword. Beautifully done and acted!
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6
kman5473Jul 30, 2018
Beautifully shot, wonderful art and set direction, great costumes, and fairly great performances by the actors--all of these elements, however, do not makeup for a half-finished script that needs some minor but effective changes. EverythingBeautifully shot, wonderful art and set direction, great costumes, and fairly great performances by the actors--all of these elements, however, do not makeup for a half-finished script that needs some minor but effective changes. Everything setup in the first two thirds of the film were interesting, but really did not add up to the rushed 3rd act of the film (everything during and after WWII). There's this gradual tension building and building throughout the first half of the film between Chiyo and Hatsumomo that is never really fully explored, explained, or resolved. It's a crying shame because Hatsumomo is setup to be a great antagonist, constantly presenting friction against the pure-hearted and trusting, though naive, Chiyo. The sexual tension between Chairman and Chiyo feels alright, but only because of the actors who worked so hard to build their on-screen chemistry. How it's actually conducted throughout the film feels a bit forced, unrealistic, and has an unsatisfying but positive resolution. Chairman is someone that Chiyo has projected all of her unfulfilled desires to be loved and happy onto. Yes, he is kind, but it absolutely feels more like a childhood crush that never got a reality check than a romance that is truly worth fighting and cheering for. Truly, he was only ever kind to Chiyo once in her life--and the movie says "Yes, that's enough for her to be completely in love with him." Give me a break. The rules of this film are far too fantastical to even be relatable. The tone seems insecure, in that the people who made this film could not decide if they wanted to make a fairy tale love story set to the backdrop of pre- and post-WWII Japan, or a hard-hitting historical fiction.… Expand
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9
Eliza-jkJun 4, 2011
As most movie adaptations of books are, it's not as good as its original. That being said, it's still a wonderful film, if a bit long as slow at times; this is easily overlooked by the thought that it is, in fact, a true story. While at timesAs most movie adaptations of books are, it's not as good as its original. That being said, it's still a wonderful film, if a bit long as slow at times; this is easily overlooked by the thought that it is, in fact, a true story. While at times overflowing with melodrama and anachronisms, the beauty of the entire thing makes it a worthwhile movie to watch at least once.… Expand
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7
bigbosslunaJan 10, 2012
Absolutely loved it. A fantastic love story. Great characters. A little long but it pays off at the end. It may not be the best American-Japanese movie but it tries and kind of succeeds.
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6
TyranianApr 12, 2019
Beautifully made though not wholly compelling, is impressive in many ways but also a bit boring.
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7
RegOzApr 5, 2012
A interesting movie...has really good moments and the atmosphere felt real. It opens up a window to other culture, so different than ours. The art direction should be applauded. Yet is not a masterpiece, but I think it deserves a 7...lessA interesting movie...has really good moments and the atmosphere felt real. It opens up a window to other culture, so different than ours. The art direction should be applauded. Yet is not a masterpiece, but I think it deserves a 7...less than that would be unfair.… Expand
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9
Trev29Jan 26, 2013
Simply from a visual standpoint, it is a masterpiece. While some thought it was boring and not engaging, I thought everything went smoothly. The melodramatic performances are what made it better in my opinion, and the story is interesting.
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8
grimsfieldJul 19, 2017
A lot of critics with sticks up their asses that just want to **** on movies because they think it makes them edgy. This movie is way better than its critic review give it credit for.
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10
2141Sep 26, 2015
Two Of my favourite movies came out during this year the other one being Children of men, this movie delights my heart each time I watch It. I've watched It at least 20 times and bought the book to read the novel. All though I confess theTwo Of my favourite movies came out during this year the other one being Children of men, this movie delights my heart each time I watch It. I've watched It at least 20 times and bought the book to read the novel. All though I confess the first time I watched It I didn't get it but that was in 2010 since then It's become one of my favourites.… Expand
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6
buddhalouJan 9, 2019
Beautiful costumes, beautiful sets, beautiful cinematography; truly a gorgeous movie. That being said, it wasn't enough to carry me through two and half hours of a screenplay and characters worthy of a bad romance novel.
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8
alejandro970Jul 1, 2022
Based on a novel, the story tells the intimate side, with great fidelity, of the geishas supported by an excellent costume design, and the music of Yo-Yo Ma and I. Perlman. It will not be a movie of all time but with some patience it looks good.
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9
FilipeNetoAug 24, 2018
This movie is a dive into the world of Japanese Geishas. Its a misunderstood profession, full of mysteries even today. However, the film makes everything wonderfully enjoyable, emotional, so intense and engaging that I almost didn't feel theThis movie is a dive into the world of Japanese Geishas. Its a misunderstood profession, full of mysteries even today. However, the film makes everything wonderfully enjoyable, emotional, so intense and engaging that I almost didn't feel the two and a half hours the movie takes. The story begins when young Chyio is sold by her parents to a geisha house. At once, it shows the drama of the separation, and we almost feel the child's excruciating pain in the incessant search for her sister, who quickly becomes the last family she feels she has. Then it will end, as Chyio takes his only remaining path of life: the life in the geisha house, ​​learning their profession by initiative of a mature geisha, who takes her as an apprentice. Other strong themes of the plot are the envy, rivalry between geishas and the difficulty they have to keep a romantic life since they're expected to be single and not behave like prostitutes. In any case, the plot captivates our attention and Chyio, later Sayuri, becomes a character the audience is able to empathize with.

Despite having a good Eastern cast, mostly female, the highlight goes to Ken Watanabe, Ziyi Zhang, Suzuka Ohgo and Li Gong. Watanabe is virtually the only sounding name for western audiences, as he has a solid career in Hollywood, but the three female actresses I mentioned have brightened more than he did, as their characters have more presence and prominence than his Administrator. Li Gong is truly hateful as a villain, while the two actresses are the children's/adult version of Chyio/Sayuri. Cinematography, costumes, make-up and art direction are also brilliant and deserves to be congratulated. The film is visually magnificent, and the audience truly understands the effort made to make it realistic and believable. Mistakes or problems? In my opinion, perhaps just the difficult of reconciling English dialogue with specific Japanese terms. If they're terms without strict translation to English this is perfectly understandable. Anyway, since I watched the film with subtitles for European Portuguese, this linguistic issue didn't represent a problem for me, although I admit that English-speaking audiences may feel some difficulty with Japanese terms they don't know.… Expand
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4
ahmedaiman1999Apr 21, 2020
On the surface, everything looks splendid. And I don't just mean the stunning cinematography and the lush production design and beautiful costumes; but I also mean the interesting world the story takes place in. Unfortunately, once you digOn the surface, everything looks splendid. And I don't just mean the stunning cinematography and the lush production design and beautiful costumes; but I also mean the interesting world the story takes place in. Unfortunately, once you dig deeper, you'd find out that this glamorous surface is almost everything the movie's got. I mean, I haven't read Arthur Golden's book, but I feel like there's more to a "geisha" than what I saw here. Actually, I feel like there's a decent dystopian protagonist buried underneath the kimonos and the white make-up.

Keeping the shallowness of the story ـــthat left much to be desiredـــ and the monotony caused by the overlong runtime ـــthat gone completely wasted in telling a well-worn story instead of exploring the promising world and developing the charactersـــ aside, the storytelling is blatantly flawed. For it seems that the movie's concern isn't to make you emotionally invested in the characters as much as just to show off the technical prowess of the production, leaving all the turning points feel totally bland, scattered every once in a while. The first act that centers around Chiyo is enjoyable, though. I don't think the sub-plot of Chiyo and her sister moved me as much as I should, and I definitely didn't buy the awkward romance that developed from this act onwards; but I found Chiyo's "bringing-up" in the geisha house and her enmity with Hatsumomo ـــonly at this pointـــ moderately interesting. (4.5/10)… Expand
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5
BlairFletcherJun 3, 2022
It had a huge potential to be an unforgettable masterpiece, but it turned out savorless.
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9
Lucaiuly94Feb 6, 2023
Io amo in modo particolare questo film.
E' grazie a questo film visto e rivisto dozzine di volte che mi ha fatto innamorare del Giappone.
Ken Watanabe bravissimo come sempre Michelle Yeoh straordinaria ma, Gong Li e Zhang Ziyi sono le mieiIo amo in modo particolare questo film.
E' grazie a questo film visto e rivisto dozzine di volte che mi ha fatto innamorare del Giappone.
Ken Watanabe bravissimo come sempre
Michelle Yeoh straordinaria ma,
Gong Li e Zhang Ziyi sono le miei preferite talento e bellezza impressionanti,
3 oscar strameritati anche se meritava di più… Expand
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