Character Analysis: Hatsumomo

In Memoirs of a Geisha I think that the use of colour helps to define the character Hatsumomo really well.

For instance, in the opening scene she is wearing the colour burgundy - on her clothes and lips - which can show being mature, regal and elegant. I think that this shows the way which she portrays herself really well, and this is also how you would describe a typical Geisha. From the first impression you can tell that she is an important person in the house, although from the dark colours on her kimono you can see that she is going to be a threatening character.

The colour red is used a lot throughout the film, although particularly with Hatsumomo. In the majority of scenes which she is in she is wearing bright red lipstick, or a red kimono. When she wears the brighter colour red is portrays the cold, evil side of her character. I think that this colour also adds a sense of danger, as it raises your heart rate and anxiety level - so this is the perfect colour for this character to wear.

I also think that it is interesting how Hatsumomo has dark brown eyes and her rival Chiyo has bright blue eyes. From this you can tell the difference between the two characters - Chiyo's blue eyes show that she is more innocent and pure than Hatsumomo.