62 GSCENE
SHOPPING
WITH MICHAEL HOOTMAN
FLOATING WEEDS (Eureka blu-ray). Ozu's
late masterpiece looks at a group of
travelling kabuki actors. The ageing leader
of the troupe is reunited with his former
lover – to the annoyance of his current
mistress – and tries to play a part in the
life of his son who believes the man is his
uncle. The film is something of a slow
burner, like most of the director's work. As
it unwinds it seems quite slight, perhaps
even occasionally dull, but by the end it's
absolutely compelling. All the characters
are treated with warmth and respect and although the hero is flawed
to say the least, his portrayal is perfectly realised.
GATE OF HELL (Eureka blu-ray). Kinugasa's
1953 film is at the opposite end of the
spectrum from Ozu. A rip-roaring, medieval
melodrama filmed in gloriously saturated
colour, it focusses on Morito, a samurai
warrior, who falls in love with a women
from the Emperor's court. After being
granted anything he desires by the
Emperor, Morito requests Lady Kesa's hand
in marriage. However, Kesa is already
married to a fellow samurai... The film is a
brilliant depiction of sexual obsession; it
feels like a straight version of opera complete with its tragic ending.
Looking at this beautifully restored high-def transfer you can see why
Martin Scorsese named Gate of Hell as one of the ten greatest colour
achievements in world cinema.
A discreet place to put condoms. Book Boxes, £16 - other sizes and
styles available (Edited, 3 Gardner St, Brighton, editedbrighton.com)
The Cardome January Sale offers discounts on
cards of 15% for five or more plus 20% off all
Banksy canvas prints (47a St James’ St,
Brighton, 01273 692916, www.cardome.co.uk)
Orla Kiely Retro Thermos Flask, £21 (Pussy, 3a
Kensington Gardens, Brighton, 01273 604861)
Gorilla Lamp, £89.99 (England at Home, 59
Ship St, 01273 738270)