Dodesukaden

Watch Dodesukaden

  • NR
  • 1970
  • 2 hr 20 min
  • 7.3  (7,508)

Dodesukaden is a Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa released in 1970. The movie follows the lives of a group of individuals living in a slum on the outskirts of Tokyo. The title 'Dodesukaden' is a made-up word used by children in Japan to describe the sound of a tram. The movie portrays the tough lives of the characters and the struggles they face daily to survive. The film offers a glimpse into the poverty and filth that exists in the slums of Tokyo.

The movie is set over a period of 24 hours and revolves around a range of characters such as a boy who fancies himself as a train driver, a mentally disabled man, a father who has abandoned his family, a young girl forced into prostitution, and many more. Each character has their own struggle, and their stories are intertwined throughout the film.

The film's opening scene is of a woman washing her face with cold water from a nearby sewer. The scene sets the tone for the rest of the movie, and the viewer is immediately drawn into the world of the slum. From there, the film continues to impress with its depiction of the lives of those who dwell there.

The film shows the miserable living conditions of the characters who inhabit the slum. The houses are dilapidated, and the streets are dirty and strewn with garbage. The residents of the slum have no access to running water, and they make do with whatever is available. The movie portrays their daily struggle to scavenge for food and basic necessities.

The characters are portrayed in a very realistic and raw manner. Each of them is unique and has their own story to tell. The characters' different aspirations are what drives the plot. The young boy who dreams of driving a tram is always seen wearing a cardboard box on his head, which he pretends is his tram. The scene where he imagines driving his make-believe tram is one of the most memorable in the film.

The film also deals with adult themes such as love, sex, and relationships. The character of a young girl forced into prostitution by her father is portrayed very sensitively. The film shows how difficult it is for her to escape her situation, and the viewer empathizes with her. The film also shows how the other residents of the slum look out for each other and how they come together to help one another in times of need.

The cinematography of the film is breathtaking. The movie's director, Akira Kurosawa, is famous for his masterful use of camera angles and framing. The slum is beautifully shot, and the camera captures the filth and squalor in a way that is both haunting and beautiful. The film's use of color is also impressive. The bright colors of the tram that runs through the slum serve as a stark contrast to the bleakness of the characters' lives.

Though the film is a masterpiece, it was not well-received when it was first released. Many critics criticized the film for its bleakness, and it was a commercial failure. However, the film has gained a cult following over the years, and it is now considered one of Kurosawa's best works.

In conclusion, Dodesukaden is a poignant and powerful film that offers a glimpse into the lives of the urban poor in Japan. The film's raw and realistic portrayal of the characters' struggles and aspirations make it an unforgettable cinematic experience. Akira Kurosawa's masterful direction, combined with the film's stunning cinematography, makes Dodesukaden a must-see for fans of Japanese cinema. Though it may not be for everyone, for those who appreciate film as an art form, Dodesukaden is an absolute must-watch.

Dodesukaden
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Description
  • Release Date
    1970
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    2 hr 20 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.3  (7,508)
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