Memoirs of a Geisha - starring Ziyi Zhang - director Rob Marshall

Memoirs of a Geisha

My expectations were not very high going into this movie. When I was leaving the theater, the movie did not let me down. It's not a bad film, but it isn't a good one. It's just sort of there, from beginning to end. There's no build up, the feel of the movie is the same from minute to minute. There's not one funny moment. I never felt inspiredand there wasn't any tension.

The worst part is I had no empathy for the leading role Sayuri, played by Ziyi Zhang. I can't decide whether she isn't a good actress or if the writer or director screwed it up. The woman goes through some tough things, but I never felt bad for her. I also didn't feel happy for her when things went well. There are a few bright spots, of course. The costumes and sets were outstanding. There is one scene in particular, where Sayuri does what I call the 'blue dance'. It is spectacular. The other highlight of the film is actress Gong Li, who plays Geisha Hatsumomo. Her character is the only on I find myself caring about and she is the 'bad guy'. I thought she did an excellent job. ~ Tracy 1/25/06

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Sony Pictures - Memoirs of a Geisha - Official Site