Female Prisoner Scorpion: 701's Grudge Song

Female Prisoner Scorpion: 701's Grudge Song is a 1973 Japanese exploitation film directed by Yasuharu Hasebe, starring the iconic Meiko Kaji as the titular character.

The movie is the third installment in the Female Prisoner Scorpion series, and it follows the story of Nami Matsushima, also known as Scorpion 701. She is a former sex worker who was wrongfully convicted of murder and now finds herself in a maximum-security prison.

The film starts with Nami's escape from prison, and she embarks on a vengeful mission against those who wronged her, including a corrupt detective and a group of men who sexually assaulted her. Along the way, she meets a kind-hearted and sympathetic artist named Kudo, played by Masakazu Tamura. However, their blossoming romance is threatened by the ruthless members of the yakuza.

As with the other movies in the series, Female Prisoner Scorpion: 701's Grudge Song features a mix of violence, sex, and surrealism. The film has a gritty and dark tone, with its stylized visuals and haunting soundtrack immersing the audience in Nami's world. The director uses a range of techniques such as slow-motion shots and unconventional camera angles to create a sense of tension and unease.

Meiko Kaji delivers a riveting performance as Nami, conveying both vulnerability and strength in the character. She is a woman who has endured immense suffering but refuses to be broken by the brutal prison system. Kaji's powerful screen presence adds to the film's overall impact, and she is able to communicate a range of emotions without saying a word.

In addition to Kaji's performance, Masakazu Tamura is also worthy of recognition for his portrayal of the gentle artist Kudo. He brings a sense of humanity and compassion to the story, and his interactions with Nami provide a contrast to the harshness of her experiences.

The movie explores themes of revenge, justice, and the power dynamics between men and women. It is a commentary on the injustices faced by women in Japanese society, and the lengths they must go to in order to seek retribution. However, the film also acknowledges the limitations of such acts of revenge, and how they can perpetuate cycles of violence.

Overall, Female Prisoner Scorpion: 701's Grudge Song is a powerful and thought-provoking film. It is a must watch for fans of Japanese exploitation cinema, as well as those interested in exploring feminist themes in film. The movie is a testament to Meiko Kaji's talent as an actress and the creative vision of Yasuharu Hasebe as a director.