Vu sur ARTE, cycle J.O./cinéma japonais, "Un homme en colère: le cinéma de Mizoguchi."
From a time before man discovered his humanity...
A very serious, very melodramatic dark ages social tale telling the most straight story possible (it's originally a folk tale), vowed to condemn oppression (unwise nobility for ex.), slavery, etc. Hope for humanity keeps showing through secondary characters and, ultimately, the hero (self-sacrifice, mercy, ...).
"Men are born equal."
A bit stretched at times, but it gives more time to appreciate the pretty "paintings" most scenes are.
Probably emotional for the audience. I guess?
Score: 8/10
Enjoyment: 3/5