Sakuran di Ninagawa Mika

This article explores the 2007 film Sakuran, directed by Ninagawa Mika, an adaptation of Anno Moyoco's manga of the same name. The film, which marked Ninagawa's debut in cinema, offers a vibrant and innovative take on the story of Kiyoha, a young woman in the Yoshiwara pleasure district of Edo, who seeks to rise to the status of oiran (the highest rank of courtesan). Ninagawa’s cinematic interpretation diverges from the original manga by incorporating elements of her own artistic style, particularly her signature use of vivid, saturated colors and recurring motifs, such as flowers and goldfish, to evoke both the confinement and beauty of the characters' lives. The article examines how Ninagawa, who gained fame as a photographer in the 1990s, brings a unique visual sensibility to the film. Her adaptation challenges traditional portrayals of women in Edo-period courtesan narratives, portraying Kiyoha as a strong, self-determined woman who defies the typical “victim” archetype. Ninagawa’s interpretation aligns with Anno Moyoco's intent to depict courtesans not as tragic figures, but as complex women with agency, even within the restrictive and exploitative environment of the pleasure houses. By analyzing the film’s aesthetic choices, narrative deviations, and feminist themes, the article also discusses how Sakuran contributes to broader conversations about gender, sexual objectification, and the commodification of the female body in both historical and contemporary contexts. Furthermore, it situates Ninagawa's directorial debut within the context of her career as a visual artist and the emerging presence of female filmmakers in Japan.