Women of the Night (1948)

In the haunting aftermath of the war, the streets of Japan are a canvas of hope and despair. Amidst this, Fusako Owada, a young mother, clings to the fragile promise of her family's reunion. However, when the war claims her husband’s life and her baby succumbs to illness, her world crumbles. Desperate and disillusioned, she joins forces with her neighbor Kumiko, and together they journey to a new city. Here, they find refuge and employment under Kenzô Kuriyama, a notorious opium dealer, and Fusako reluctantly becomes his mistress. One day, amidst the bustling city streets, Fusako stumbles upon a ghost from her past - her estranged sister, Natsuko. Recently returned from Korea and working as a nightclub dancer, Natsuko is a living reminder of a life once lived. She moves in with Fusako and Kumiko, unknowingly stepping into a treacherous triangle when she ignites a passionate affair with Kuriyama. Feeling betrayed, Fusako disappears, slipping into the shadowy underworld of the Red Light District. When a nightclub client whispers rumors of her sister's whereabouts, a pregnant Natsuko embarks on a desperate search. As the neon glow of the city casts long shadows, the sisters' twisted fates collide. Will Natsuko uncover the truth and find Fusako? Or will they remain lost in the labyrinth of their lives? "Women of the Night" is a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and survival in post-war Japan, where the lines between right and wrong blur, and redemption seems just out of reach.

Women of the Night is a drama movie featuring Kinuyo Tanaka and directed by Kenji Mizoguchi.

Women of the Night is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Plex, Plex Player and Tubi TV and it's also available on Criterion Channel.