---
title: "In the Realm of the Senses"
year: 1976
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/in-the-realm-of-the-senses-1976"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 5879
imdb_id: "tt0074102"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 105
community_rating: 6.6
vote_count: 740
content_rating: "NR"
---

# In the Realm of the Senses (1976) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/in-the-realm-of-the-senses-1976

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

In the Realm of the Senses is a 1976 film that explores the complexities of human desire and intimacy. The narrative provides a passionate retelling of the historical story of Sada Abe. The plot centers on a woman who engages in an affair with her master, which unfolds into a deeply intense connection. As the story progresses, this relationship evolves into an obsessive and ultimately destructive sexual bond between the two central characters. The film examines the extreme consequences of their mutual fixation, documenting the trajectory of their involvement as it moves toward its inevitable conclusion. By focusing on the psychological and physical manifestations of their passion, the production offers a detailed look at the boundaries of devotion and the perilous nature of their shared experiences. The film remains a notable work for its unflinching portrayal of the couple's descent into a life-altering obsession, highlighting the profound and dangerous impact that their intense connection has on both individuals involved in the affair.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A woman enters an intense and destructive affair with her employer in this historical drama."

### Why Watch
- compelling historical subject matter
- intense character study

### Caveats & Content Note
- contains explicit sexual themes
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains explicit sexual content and mature themes throughout.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: obsessive, passionate, intense, dramatic

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | Criterion Channel | None | None |
| **Canada (CA)** | Criterion Channel | None | None |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Nagisa Ōshima
- **Networks / Studios**: Argos films, Oshima Productions, Shibata Organisation

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Eiko Matsuda** as *Sada Abe*
- **Tatsuya Fuji** as *Kichizo Ishida*
- **Aoi Nakajima** as *Toku*
- **Yasuko Matsui** as *Tagawa Inn Manager*
- **Meika Seri** as *Matsuko (Yoshidaya Maid)*
- **Kanae Kobayashi** as *Old Geisha Kikuryû*
- **Taiji Tonoyama** as *Old Beggar*
- **Kyōji Kokonoe** as *Teacher Ômiya*
- **Naomi Shiraishi** as *Geisha Yaeji*
- **Shinkichi Noda** as *Street Restaurant Owner*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What is the film about?
It depicts the story of Sada Abe and her obsessive affair with her master.

### Q: Is this based on a true story?
Yes, the film is a telling of the story of Sada Abe.

### Q: What is the tone of the film?
The film is characterized by intense and passionate themes.

### Q: Does the film feature a romance?
It follows a sexual relationship between a woman and her master.

### Q: Is the relationship healthy?
The relationship is described as obsessive and destructive.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*