Chikamatsu Monogatari

In feudal Kyoto, a scroll maker's wife is accused of having an affair with his trusted assistant. The charge sparks a public scandal that imperils them both. Rather than submit to gossip and possible punishment, they escape the city, taking to the roads away from prying eyes. On the move, they endure hardship and suspicion from strangers who misread their bond, yet the pressure of their predicament draws them closer. Their growing attraction challenges the moral codes that threaten to tear their lives apart, turning a perilous flight into a delicate test of trust, loyalty, and choice under a judgmental society.

Directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, this drama draws on works by the 17th century playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon, with a screenplay by Yoshikata Yoda and Matsutarō Kawaguchi. It premiered in 1954 and reflects Mizoguchi's sensitive approach to social constraints. The production is noted for its restrained color palette, long takes, and a focus on actor performances that magnify the power of social pressures.

It stands among Mizoguchi's acclaimed studies of female experience in a male dominated era. The film helped cement his reputation abroad and is often cited for its restrained emotional realism, formal composition, and quiet scenes that expose social pressures shaping intimate choices. Its visual elegance and restrained emotion are often cited as influencing later Japanese cinema.

Critics view it as a humane examination of loyalty and desire under rigid social rules. The narrative centers on class and gender constraints, fairness and the price of freedom. Mizoguchi's patient pacing and compassionate gaze invite empathy for characters navigating blame, rumor, and moral judgment. Its themes resonate with audiences today, making it a touchstone for studies of gender and power.

Box office data for this title is not widely documented, and reliable worldwide gross figures from the 1950s are scarce. The film is primarily studied for its artistic impact rather than commercial performance.