Watch A Legend or Was It?

A Legend or Was It? is a 1963 Japanese drama film directed by Keisuke Kinoshita and starring Shima Iwashita, Mariko Kaga, and Kinuyo Tanaka. The story centers around three women: Tomi, Tsune, and Yae, who were once colleagues at a silk factory in Yokohama. The film takes place twenty years after they worked together, when they are reunited for Tomi's son's wedding. Throughout the course of the film, the women reminisce about their past and the events that led to their separation.

Tomi, played by Shima Iwashita, is the daughter of a wealthy businessman who owns the silk factory. Despite her privileged upbringing, Tomi is not content with her life and longs for something more. She becomes involved with a labor organizer named Yoshio, and their relationship ultimately leads to her leaving the factory and causing a scandal in her family.

Tsune, played by Mariko Kaga, is a hard-working woman who struggles to support her family. She takes a job at the silk factory to make ends meet and becomes friends with Tomi and Yae. Tsune's loyalty to her family is tested when she falls in love with Yoshio, who is also involved with Tomi.

Yae, played by Kinuyo Tanaka, is the oldest of the three women and serves as a mentor to Tomi and Tsune. She is a skilled weaver and takes pride in her work at the factory. Yae is a traditional, conservative woman who disapproves of Tomi and Tsune's relationship with Yoshio.

A Legend or Was It? explores themes of class, gender roles, and social justice. The film portrays the harsh realities of factory life and the struggles faced by working-class women in Japan during the 1940s. It also delves into the complexities of romantic relationships and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles.

The film's production design is visually stunning, with gorgeous shots of the silk factory and the surrounding countryside. The use of color and lighting creates a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly complements the film's themes of memory and nostalgia.

One of the standout performances in the film is that of Shima Iwashita, who portrays Tomi with depth and nuance. Her character undergoes a significant transformation throughout the course of the film, and Iwashita portrays this evolution beautifully. Mariko Kaga also delivers a strong performance as Tsune, capturing the character's strength and vulnerability.

Overall, A Legend or Was It? is a beautifully-crafted drama that explores complex themes with sensitivity and nuance. The performances are outstanding, and the cinematography is stunning. This is a must-see for fans of Japanese cinema and anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.