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A Woman's Sorrows

Name: A Woman's Sorrows
Director: Mikio Naruse
Released: 1937
Duration: 74 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

1937

Director

Mikio Naruse

Runtime

74 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Mikio Naruse’s drama provides a sophisticated examination of gendered power structures by dismantling the 'ideal woman' stereotype. Despite being confined by the societal norms of its time, the film uncovers the inner struggles of its protagonist against systemic entrapment. The narrative effectively conveys the emotional strain of conforming to societal norms. By presenting an affluent household as a place of confinement rather than stability, the film questions the idealized notions of traditional marriage. However, the film falls short in representing a wide range of identities, particularly those related to LGBTQ+ and disability issues.

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Category Breakdown

Does A Woman's Sorrows have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film adheres to traditional assumptions about sexuality and gender. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or stories that question these norms.

How does A Woman's Sorrows portray gender?

Fair

Hiroko’s marriage is shown as a form of servitude rather than a partnership. The story emphasizes the psychological burden of her submission to patriarchal authority and domestic constraints.

How racially and ethnically diverse is A Woman's Sorrows?

Limited

The film mirrors the uniform demographic makeup of 1930s Japan. It centers on internal class and domestic dynamics without showcasing racial diversity or varied casting.

How does A Woman's Sorrows represent religion and culture?

Fair

The plot delves into the tension between modernization and traditional Japanese values. It depicts the traditional family unit as a site of potential oppression and emotional labor.

Does A Woman's Sorrows include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no recorded depiction of physical or cognitive disabilities in this work.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced look at traditional gender hierarchies and patriarchal authority.
Highlights the psychological cost of domestic servitude by challenging romanticized views of marriage.
Provides a deep exploration of systemic emotional entrapment through the protagonist's viewpoint.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ characters or narratives that question traditional gender norms.
Reflects a homogeneous demographic with no evidence of racial or ethnic diversity.
Does not depict physical or cognitive disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Young Hiroko’s conservative principles place her at odds with most modern women, as she has already submitted to her mother’s choice of man for any marriage prospect. Wed into an affluent family that practically treats her as a housemaid, locked away like a 'doll' by her estimation, Hiroko’s own submission to traditional thinking brings contradictions to light.

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