Gohatto (Taboo)

Gohatto which in English translates to as "taboo". We know that the word "taboo" is sort of, forbidden or is cursed that it is banned or something in relation to that. And so the movie implies this title itself.

The movie is set in Kyoto during spring of around 1865 where the Shinsengumi troop is very much the townspeople's heroes. But inside the militia is a person to break grounds as he volunteers to serve the said group. Meet Kano Sozaburo, a lovely 18-year-old boy with looks as bewitching as a true geisha, or porcelain doll in a hakama. Along his physical appearance is his long hair tied up the back and locks that he wishes not to cut. This is the first thing that started the commotion in the Shinsen. Keeping a samurai's locks is a sign that he is an open desire for others. The first samurai to show his open affection to young Sozaburo is his co-newcomer, Tashiro, who even at the start of the movie advances his moves to keep Sozaburo to himself.

As the movie progress, more affiliates show their feelings or desires to the young boy. One is Captain Kondo, who plots to keep Sozaburo by means of others in his power. Also is one of the control captains in one of the troops, that Kano will have a hidden sexual affair. (Actually, he is that only character that the film will show Kano engaging in sex.) Then the other Lieutenant Hijikata does not shallow his feeling for the boy, however this emotion is gradually realized as the film goes on.

I know yaoi lovers will like this sort of movie as it has the "men chasing men" element, but Oshima (the director) leaves us with a hanging desire to see who gets who. Like the sex scene when Kano is with the control captain, the scene is in a room but shows no great affection whatsoever. It only implies the pure desire to posses such a beauty. There's also a rumor that says Kano has taken a lover, which is Tashiro. Then there's the conflict about Lieutenant Hijikata and Kondo about sharing the same interest in Kano. I guess the director wanted to emphasize the main character as it ponders through the life of warriors. On how these samurai lived their life inside the shell but outside showing a tough image.

I also like the term they used about having such interest to Sozaburo. They say, "inclined," which implies attraction. There is also humor in this film as it shows how these men get along and joke around unwary of the next battle. There are so many indirect insults and hidden messages in the lyrical scripts that it's fun to explore them.

I will not give away the ending and most of the story, but I will tell, as part of the review, that still, Oshima gave us a very eye-catching bishounen, a good plot, and very nice cinematography, realistic sword play and battle scenes, and a very relaxing ambiance despite of the tension roaming the story, however, viewers of the film will be left hanging on the story and some questions may be unanswered.

But in general, it is a great movie that breaks taboo and dares to show how strong, stone men give in to a seductive beauty. It's a must watch for Japanese movie lovers!