Princess Yang Kwei Fei

Stars: Machiko Kyo (Drifting Weeds, Rashomon, Teahouse of the August Moon), Masayuki Mori (Rashomon, The Idiot). This beautifully filmed early Japanese color effort from legendary director Kenji Mizoguchi (Ugetsu), lensed one year before his death, is a touching historical drama set in 8th-century China, at the close of the T'ang dynasty. In perpetual mourning since the death of his empress, the Emperor (Masayuki Mori) takes no pleasure in his daily existence and--of greater importance to his closest sycophants--is not handing out favors to his court. After dismissing one girl after another, the Emperor is struck by a lovely scullery maid (Machiko Kyu), and eventually takes her as his bride. As the lovers find joy with each other, they are oblivious to the surrounding court intrigues and abuses of power, until a revolution by the people sparks a tragedy. A Cinderella story set against a political background, Princess Yang Kwei Fei boasts fine performances from both Mori and the radiant Kyu. The vibrant use of color, exquisite costumes, and meticulous set decoration make the film a treat for the eyes. [Note: this is also known as The Empress Yang Kwei Fei.] Audience: Classic foreign film lovers for sure, but also those looking for a solid love story.