Memoirs of a Geisha

The cast includes several A-list East Asian actors, like Michelle Yeoh, Gong Li, Ziyi Zhang, and Ken Watanabe. But it's confusing that the main characters of a movie about geishas -- a uniquely Japanese profession -- are played by ethnically Chinese actors who use Chinese-accented English to speak. Lack of authenticity continues behind the camera: Writers, the director, producers, cinematographer, editor, etc. are all White. Western standards of beauty, such as Sayuri's blue eyes, are revered by other characters. Women are the main characters, but they're pitted against each other. A supporting character has a facial difference; the role is non-stereotypical but described as "repulsive" by a villain.

Young sisters are violently separated (leading to tears and loneliness). An adult whips a child with a switch as punishment. One woman reaches under another woman's kimono; it's implied that she inserts her fingers into her vagina to check for evidence of having just had sex. A character is sexually assaulted (scene cuts away before anything graphic). Characters fight, wield sharp objects (no one is stabbed). A building catches on fire with people inside; no one is shown hurt. Scenes of wartime Japan as civilians must flee cities for safety. When the romantic leads first meet, one is 9 years old, and the other is an adult, bringing up issues of grooming and consent.

Adults can be seen having simulated sex from behind (thrusting motions, but not graphic). Naked backs visible at various points throughout the film. Adults in towels at a bathhouse; a scene takes place at a hot spring where naked guests socialize in the water (nothing sensitive is visible). Sexual assault -- see "Violence" for more information.

"Whore" is used twice; "bastards," once. No other cursing takes place.

Characters drink sake and whiskey. They also frequently smoke cigarettes and pipes.