The Controversial 1970 Japanese Film Dodeska-den: An Analysis and Reappraisal

Often debated and highly polarizing, Dodeska-den, an experimental Japanese film from 1970, made by one of the world's most renowned directors, Akira Kurosawa, has a complex legacy. While some view it as one of the greatest films of all time, others, like the reviewer above, found it difficult to engage with. This article aims to analyze why opinions on this film are so divided, and what makes it a significant entry in Japanese cinema.

Introduction to Dodeska-den

Dodeska-den, or Ten Fingers in the West, is a 1970 film directed by Akira Kurosawa, based on Takumi Yanase's novel, "The Deceived." The film explores life in an anti-stateship factory town and deals with themes of oppression, forced labor, and rebellion. Like many of Kurosawa's works, it blends together elements of social commentary, action, and a touch of surrealism.

Key Elements of Kurosawa's Direction

One of the reasons why some find the film captivating is Kurosawa's unparalleled direction. The director, known for his wit and poetic storytelling, brings out a unique blend of quiet drama and formidable action sequences. Kurosawa's use of symbolism and the interplay of different narrative levels are hallmarks of his style, and this film is no exception. However, it is also noted for its experimental nature, which some viewers find challenging.

Themes and Characters

Themes: The film deals with deep social themes, including class struggle, the abuses of power, and the alienation of the individual. It portrays the lives of downtrodden individuals trapped within a system that exploits their labor and denies them their basic human rights. Such profound themes, especially in the context of post-WWII Japan, make the film a significant piece of social commentary.

Characters: The characters in Dodeska-den, particularly the characters of a poor man, a child, and the suicidal tram driver, are complex figures that invite deep reflection. The poor man is a victim of the factory's oppressive system, while the child can be seen as the embodiment of purity, innocence, and the Romantic ideal. The tram driver, on the other hand, is a tragic figure, caught between despair and the act of suicide as a means of protest. Whether these characters received the prominence they deserved is a matter of personal interpretation and can heavily influence one's opinion of the film.

Popularity and Reception

Despite the supportive comments from some quarters, Dodeska-den has not garnered the same level of acclaim as some of Kurosawa's other renowned works like "Rashomon" or "Seven Samurai." However, it holds a significant place in film history. In 2012, it was included in the 1000 Best Films in the 1000 Years project, curated by the British Film Institute. This implies that, regardless of its polarizing nature, the film has undeniably left a lasting mark on cinema.

Conclusion: Why the Polarizing Reception?

The polarizing reception of Dodeska-den can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the film's experimental nature, heavy use of symbolism, and its focus on realist social issues make it a difficult watch for some. Secondly, the social commentary and its portrayal of the harsh realities of life in post-war Japan may be distasteful to some viewers. Lastly, the interpretation of the characters and themes can vary widely among different viewers, leading to vastly different opinions on the film.

Despite these challenges, Dodeska-den remains a fascinating and thought-provoking work. For those interested in understanding the complexities of post-war Japan and the power of cinema as a medium for social critique, it is a film that cannot be overlooked.

Further Reading and Viewing

To further deepen your understanding of the film, consider reading Takumi Yanase's novel "The Deceived" or exploring other works by Akira Kurosawa. Watching other films by Kurosawa, such as "High and Low" or "Red Beard," can also provide valuable context for the themes and techniques used in Dodeska-den.