[Film; SA Premiere]
Palace Nova East End Cinemas
Fri 6 December 2025
Ballet dancers and elite sports athletes undergo constant and rigorous training, and the preparation of a Kabuki actor is similarly long and arduous. Kokuho centres on the development of two young men who undergo this process in order to enter the Kabuki theatre. The two boys from completely different backgrounds develop a bond that threads through the complex story.Their rivalry and cooperation over the decades of their careers tests the strength of this bond.
Just as the authorities in England deemed all Shakespearean actors must be male, the same thing happened in Japan. This was abandoned in Europe during the seventeenth century, but it continues in the orient until this day. The roles of women and girls are played by men, and they became specialized as ‘onnagata.’ We are familiar with the geisha, the refined female hostess. However, in the theatre the onnagata hold a commanding presence. The drama and tragedies are heightened to an operatic pitch by the elaborate and exquisite costuming, the orchestra onstage behind them, and the intricate precision of their movements.
They play out what appear to be short, simple stories. But the delight is in the detail, where each emotion must be delivered with an extreme dedication to its true nature. These acting methods eventually travelled through Russia and eastern Europe to reach the west, becoming ‘method’ acting. The stories are traditional and well-known, containing sub-plots and side characters, twists and turns to make them into full length plays. The lives of the actors mirror these, as their fortunes fluctuate. This is due both to the fickle fancies of the theatrical world and also the power struggle inherent in the succession of a kabuki family.
The love-hate relationship of the actors with their art is exposed and explored well. The high expectations demanded by teachers, patrons and the public put incredible pressure on them. They attempt to remain focused to keep their art ‘stronger than swords and guns.’
Kokuho is clearly plotted and easy to follow, with all players giving strong, perfect performances. It provides a unique window into Japanese culture, and a sumptuous insight into their treasured theatrical art. Much like life, Kabuki is more about how it is done and who is doing it.
5 Stars
David Cronin
Kokuho continues at Palace Nova East End Cinemas at various times until Sun 14 Dec. Purchase tickets HERE
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The Clothesline Rating
David Cronin
Provides a unique window into Japanese culture, and a sumptuous insight into their treasured theatrical art.
