Directed by Rob Marshall, the original story created by Arthur Golden ''Memoirs of a Geisha'' has surprised many. Demonstrating the real life in Japan after World War II, we learn how many girls had to live in a world completely different from home.
After being sold to a geisha district in Japan by her father, a fisherman, young Chiyo, with different and peculiar eyes, is forced to work on the okiya - geisha house - she was sent to, while receiving humiliations from those around her, especially Hatsumomo. But for her own luck, she came across a generous man, who she wishes to come across again.
During her cruel adolescence up until she became a full geisha highly admired and desired by many, Chiyo had proven she was capable of anything to get away from the disturbing and poor situations she was living through. Showing her courage and great will, she finally get rid of Hatsumomo, her rival.
Although the film generated polemics for having Chinese actors in a Japanese story, the readers did not have any disappointment, for the actress and protagonist Zhang Ziyi new exactly how to become a geisha on the inside and out, making the production even more realistic and surprising.
Personally, Memoirs of a Geisha is the best book I have ever read, for it contains so many surprising moments with mysteries. I highly recommend it for I absolutely love everything about it!
- Andy.