Memoirs of a Geisha **1/2
Cast: Ziyi Zhang, Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh, Kôji Yakusho, Kaori Momoi, Youki Kudoh, Gong Li, Kenneth Tsang, Suzuka Ohgo
Director: Rob Marshall
Running Length: 2:25
MPAA Classification: PG-13

As a child, Chiyo (Zhang) is sold by her father to the owner of a geisha house. A geisha is a "moving work of art" who sells her skills. Her new plans to become one are ended when Hatsumomo (Li) decides she does not like her. She is instead forced to perform chores for the house. After the Chairman (Watanabe) is kind to her, Chiyo decides she will find a way to become a geisha and make him her patron. Mameha (Yeoh), a famous geisha, decides to take Chiyo under her wing, and when she is introduced into society she must compete with Harsumomo for clients.

"Memoirs" is an interesting movie that gives a window into the world of the geisha. Unfortunately, it is not fascinating enough to sustain the movie's 145 minute running time. Zhang and Yeoh give good performances and are likeable in their roles. Li is suitably dislikeable in hers. The film is beautiful to look at and evokes the time frame of the movie very well. This is not a bad movie, but like I said, it runs way too long. Because of this, I cannot recommend it for most theater-goers. Those really interested in the story material and the time, however, may just find a gem of a film.