Belladonna of Sadness
Kanashimi no Belladonna
(Japan, 1973) from Eiichi Yamamoto
86’, O.V. with italian subtitles
In an imaginary Middle Ages-like time, Jeanne and Jean love each other dearly and wish to marry. Unable to pay for their dowry, the local Lord not only denies them the permission to marry, but also rapes the wife-to-be and let his acolytes do so, too. In a desperate attempt, Jeanne conjures the devil, who promises her special powers in exchange for her soul. Jeanne uses this power to bring well-being to her village, but the castle lady’s and other women’s envy condemnes her to exile.
The cursed masterpiece of Japanese animation that led Osamu Tezuka’s glorious Mushi Production into bankruptcy is brought back to the screen thanks to a digital restoration that highlights the amazing colors and plastic qualities.
4K restored version.