Isuzu Yamada (1917 – 2012)
Isuzu Yamada, one of the most renowned actresses in Japanese cinema history, passed away on July 9, 2012. She was 95. Her memorable screen performance includes Mizoguchi’s “Osaka Elegy”, Naruse’s “Nagareru” and Kurowsawa’s “Thone of Blood”, to name the few. She started her career in her teens in Nikkatsu and was recognized quickly for superb acting skills. Her portrayal of damaged, rebellious teenage mistress and Geisha in Mizoguchi’s “Osaka Elegy” and “Sisters of the Gion” was breakthrough in prewar Japanese cinema, and boosted both Mizoguchi’s and Yamada’s careers. Before WWII, she was a top star at Toho, starring in many …