Concubine Secrets: Lustful Dance

The twelfth shogun, Ieyoshi, embraces Oruri day and night under the care of Fujioka, a guest attendant at the O-oku. However, Fujioka's senior, Kumoi, who recommends Oseki to him, is not amused at all. The scene between Fujioka and Kumoi was symbolic of the battle between women in the O-oku. Fujioka hears from Orui that she is pregnant and rejoices that she has nothing to fear if she bears the Shogun's child. Meanwhile, Kumoi comforts Bure, who is a lesbian, and asks Oseki to help her get a call from the shogun.

Directed by Isao Hayashi, Concubine Secrets: Lustful Dance leans on a strong ensemble — Setsuko Ogawa, Yuri Yamashina, Michiyo Mako — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1972.