Belladonna of Sadness

Kanashimi no Beradonna (Eiichi Yamamoto, Japan 1973)
1h 26m - Japanese voice, English subtitles - Age limit 15 years

Is there any Japanese anime more scandalous and beautiful than Belladonna of Sadness? It premiered at the 1973 Berlin International Film Festival and single-handedly ensured that it would be the last film from animation studio Mushi Production. Inspired by the 1862 book La Sorcière (English title Satanism and Witchcraft) by Jules Michelet, it tells the story of Jeanne who sells herself to the devil in late 18th-century France.

Many consider the film to be the most beautiful anime in history, with its exquisite watercolors, paintings, imaginative drawings and elaborate portraits. Much of the controversy lies in its treatment of female sexuality, the generally unsympathetic male characters, the liberated eroticism and the oppression by the upper class and church, which in the film forms the basis for the French Revolution. Definitely an anime not intended for children!

Previously, the film has been available heavily edited and censored, now it is finally possible to experience it in a complete and beautiful 4K DCP.

Review: Cinematheque in Oslo