The Golf Game That Became a Tale of Sorrow and Sadness
As spring arrives, and the sun shines brighter, golf seems to be everywhere. The television broadcasts, the magazines, and even the billboards are filled with the majestic scenery of golf courses and the hushed voices of announcers guiding the audience through the game. However, amidst the serene and tranquil atmosphere of golf, lies a dark side of fame and the price one pays to become a champion. This is the essence of Seijun Suzuki’s 1967 film, A Tale of Sorrow and Sadness.

A Dark Satire of the Fame Industry

A Tale of Sorrow and Sorrow is not just a sports movie; it’s a satire that delves into the world of fame and the price one pays to be a sensation. The film follows the story of a young female golfer, Reiko, who is chosen by a fabric company to become their new spokesmodel. The company is eager to promote their new fashion line, and they see Reiko as the perfect candidate. However, the company’s advertising agency takes a more drastic approach. They offer Reiko a substantial amount of money and promise her a chance to win the big ladies’ tournament, which would catapult her to fame.

The Cost of Becoming a Champion

Reiko agrees to work with a golf trainer, Miyake, who has a reputation for pushing his students to their limits. Miyake’s methods are unorthodox, and Reiko is forced to commit herself to winning at all costs. She becomes obsessed with the game, and her dedication takes a toll on her physical and mental health. As Reiko’s star rises, the company’s grip on her tightens, and she is forced to participate in various promotional activities that take her away from the golf course.

The Price of Promotion

The film showcases the dark side of fame, where a person’s life becomes a mere commodity. The company controls Reiko’s every move, and she is forced to wear their brand everywhere she goes. She becomes a puppet, and her freedom is limited. The company’s advertising agency is relentless in their pursuit of success, and Reiko becomes a mere tool to sell their brand.

Seijun Suzuki’s Masterpiece

Seijun Suzuki, the director, was blacklisted by Nikkatsu after making the film Branded to Kill in 1967. A Tale of Sorrow and Sorrow is his first feature film after the blacklist, and it showcases his unique style and vision. The film is a masterpiece, and it is easy to see why Suzuki is known for his dark and gritty storytelling.

Visuals and Audio

The film is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic, and the audio is in Japanese LPCM mono. The visuals are stunning, with the lush green grass of the golf course and the sound of the ball hitting the green. The audio commentary by Samm Deighan provides valuable insights into the making of the film and the themes it explores. Cast and Crew
The film features a talented cast, including Yoko Shiraki, Yoshio Harada, and Tetsu Mizuno. The editor, Kunihiko Ukai, had a personal connection to Seijun Suzuki and had attended the trial between Suzuki and Nikkatsu. The film’s visual style is reminiscent of Suzuki’s other works, such as Tokyo Drifter and Branded to Kill. Conclusion
A Tale of Sorrow and Sorrow is a thought-provoking film that explores the dark side of fame and the price one pays to become a champion. The film is a masterpiece, and it showcases Seijun Suzuki’s unique style and vision. The visuals and audio are stunning, and the cast and crew deliver outstanding performances. This film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates classic Japanese cinema. Key Points:
• A Tale of Sorrow and Sorrow is a satire that delves into the world of fame and the price one pays to be a sensation. • The company’s advertising agency takes a more drastic approach, offering Reiko a substantial amount of money and promising her a chance to win the big ladies’ tournament. • The film showcases the dark side of fame, where a person’s life becomes a mere commodity. • Seijun Suzuki’s masterpiece is a thought-provoking film that explores the themes of fame, obsession, and the price of success. Recommended for:
• Fans of classic Japanese cinema
• Anyone interested in the world of golf and the sports industry
• Viewers who appreciate thought-provoking films that explore the darker side of human nature
Rating:
• Unrated
• Running Time: 93 minutes
• Release Date: April 29, 2025
• Limited Edition
• Radiance Films presents A Tale of Sorrow and Sorrow: Limited Edition
References:
• Samm Deighan’s audio commentary
• Kunihiko Ukai’s new interview
• Vintage review of the film
• Limited edition booklet featuring new writing by Jasper Sharp
Further Reading:
• Seijun Suzuki’s biography
• The history of Japanese cinema
• The sports industry and its impact on society
Recommendations:
• Watch other films by Seijun Suzuki, such as Tokyo Drifter and Branded to Kill
• Read Jasper Sharp’s new writing in the limited edition booklet
• Explore the world of golf and the sports industry through documentaries and books.