Hymn (1972) User Reviews

Shindo goes avant-garde.

[godgetsmepumped · 9/10 · 26 August 2015]

Shunkin is a blind master of the shamisen and koto. She torments and tortures her students, including her ever-faithful apprentice/servant/lover, Sasuke. When one of her enemies pours boiling water on her face, scarring her for life, Sasuke takes great measures to ensure he never sees her face again. The story is told by their former maid, in a nursing home, to a researcher, played by the director himself, uncredited. It is one of Shindo's most elegant and avant-garde films -- his works tend to be more grounded and focus on poor people in miserable situations. For various reasons I won't get into here, this is not a film for the uninitiated. This one is for Japanese enthusiasts only. 9/10.

Shindo's love

[tomyargo · 10/10 · 2 April 2023]

Technically superior. Meticulous director as usual. Every detail is just there. Music, light, perspective etc. There is no need to discuss.

How could you go far for love? What challenges would you accept or cope? It is hard to find an answer. Mostly we say something and do another. We may say 'it depends'. Cautious approach, understandable. Here in this experiment Shindo challenge viewer and lovers.

If you have a romantic partner, this movie probably touch their soul.

There is kinky element in this movie, but this kink not pornographically shoot. It is very emotional, delicate.

If you like Japan romance, art and style, I would suggest. If you like action, blast or thriller, stay away.