The Crucified Lovers

A Film by Kenji Mizoguchi

Master filmmaker Kenji Mizoguchi adapts this story of forbidden love from the 17th century story by Chikamatsu Monzaemon, considered the 'Japanese Shakespeare'. Originally penned for Bunraku , the traditional Japanese puppet theatre, Mizoguchi has created a touching and gripping tale which is, undoubtedly, essential viewing for any film lover.

Based on a centuries-old tale with roots in real events, The Crucified Lovers tells the hauntingly tragic story of a forbidden love affair between a merchant's wife, Osan, and her husband's employee, Mohei, in an era when the punishment for adultery was crucifixion. When a series of innocent events lead to the false accusation of an affair between Osan and Mohei, the accused pair are forced to flee an almost certain death sentence. On the run, the outlaw couple grow closer together, drawn inexorably towards the romantic crime of which they are accused.

DVD Special Features

An insert article by Dr. Mats Karlsson, Lecturer in Japanese Studies, University of Sydney
Original theatrical teaser and trailer