How is colour used as symbolism
in Memoirs of a Geisha?
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Memoirs
of a Geisha largely revolves around Sayuri’s unique and genetically rare blue
eyes. The colour blue symbolises water and this is referred to throughout the
film by other characters who notice them.
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The
status of each Geisha is indicated through the collar on their kimono. An
apprentice Geisha (a Maiko) wears a red collar which symbolises that she is in
the training process whereas an established Geisha would wear a white collar.
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A
red box with a rice cake in it symbolises a Geisha’s purity. They give them to
men to signal that they may bid for their mizuage (virginity).
How
does the use of colour define Sayuri in her styling, makeup and hair?
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| Sayuri applying makeup |
As
the lead character Sayuri stands out due to her usual blue eyes. The colour blue represents purity and cleanliness which are important traits in a Geisha. Coupled with
the traditional hair and makeup, she becomes the most sought after
Geisha thanks to her intriguing appearance. During her apprentice Geisha stage,
Sayuri is heavily made up with a thick white base, red lipstick and black
eyeliner and brows. This is how an apprentice Geisha would be recognised. As
she becomes older and more established, Sayuri adopts a more sombre look. Sayuri’s
hairstyle is always very simple and elegant compared to other Geishas. It
allows her natural beauty to be all the more forthcoming.
This link shows the scene from Memoirs of a Geisha where Sayuri makes her transformation... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYzqz3dMBCo
How
does the use of colour set the tone for one of the scenes in Memoirs of a
Geisha?
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| Memoirs of a Geisha, opening scene |
The
opening scene of the film is very grey/black and dull in colour. During the scene, we
see a father sell his young daughters and have them dragged away from their
home and their family on a cold, raining night. The fear and sadness is
reflected in the dark, monotone scenery. In Japanese culture, the colour black represents death and destruction. The darkness of the scenes indicates a
low point and from there, the film moves forward, the story moves forward and
as it rises, the colours become warmer to portray growth.
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