The Notorious Concubines Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Movie Overview: The Notorious Concubines
| Movie | The Notorious Concubines |
| Release Year | 1968 |
| Director | Kōji Wakamatsu |
| Genre | History / Romance |
| Runtime | 90 minutes (1h 30m) |
| Language | JA |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Notorious Concubines (1968) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a FLOP with a verified audience rating of 4.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this History.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Notorious Concubines are led by Tomoko Mayama . The supporting cast, including Kazuko Wakamatsu and Teruko Higa , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Notorious Concubines does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy History films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Notorious Concubines has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the History fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Notorious Concubines
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1968, The Notorious Concubines is a History, Romance film directed by Kōji Wakamatsu, written by Atsushi Yamatoya. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Tomoko Mayama as Pan Jinlian.
Ending Explained: The Notorious Concubines
The Notorious Concubines Ending Explained: Based on the Chinese classic "Jin Ping Mei". Directed by Kōji Wakamatsu, this 1968 history film stars Tomoko Mayama (Pan Jinlian), alongside Kazuko Wakamatsu as Wu Yueniang, Teruko Higa as Meng Yulou, Riko Kurenai as Chunmei. Rated 4/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Notorious Concubines?
Based on the Chinese classic "Jin Ping Mei". Original Japanese cut directed by Koji Wakamatsu and produced by Shochiku. Set in Song-dynasty China, Wu Song rises to fame and becomes a guard captain. He is captivated by his brother’s wife, Pan Jinlian, whose beauty also ensnares the wealthy libertine Ximen Qing. To possess her, Ximen Qing has Wu Song’s brother murdered. When the corrupt authorities refuse justice, Wu Song is imprisoned, escapes with the help of the Liangshan bandits, and joins their ranks. Ximen Qing descends further into decadence, but Wu Song eventually returns, leading an attack on the town.
Kōji Wakamatsu's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Tomoko Mayama (Pan Jinlian)'s journey. Original Japanese cut directed by Koji Wakamatsu and produced by Shochiku.
How Does Tomoko Mayama (Pan Jinlian)'s Story End?
- Tomoko Mayama: Tomoko Mayama's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Kazuko Wakamatsu (Wu Yueniang): Kazuko Wakamatsu's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Teruko Higa (Meng Yulou): Teruko Higa's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is The Notorious Concubines Based on a True Story?
Yes — The Notorious Concubines draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Kōji Wakamatsu has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of The Notorious Concubines Mean?
The ending of The Notorious Concubines brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Tomoko Mayama's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Notorious Concubines Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Notorious Concubines Based on a True Story?
Yes, The Notorious Concubines is inspired by documented historical events. Directed by Kōji Wakamatsu and starring Tomoko Mayama, this history, romance film explores how real events have been adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version of The Notorious Concubines
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: The Notorious Concubines uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. Viewers interested in the real history may want to explore historical sources alongside the film.
Who Should Watch The Notorious Concubines?
Age Advisory: Rated R — not suitable for younger viewers.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for History films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
The Notorious Concubines Parents Guide & Age Rating
1968 AdvisoryWondering about The Notorious Concubines age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Notorious Concubines (1968) is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Directed by Kōji Wakamatsu, the film runs for 90 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.0/10, and global performance metrics, The Notorious Concubines is classified as a FLOP. It remains an essential part of the 1968 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Notorious Concubines worth watching?
The Notorious Concubines is definitely worth watching if you enjoy History movies. It has a verified rating of 4/10 and stands as a FLOP in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Notorious Concubines parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Notorious Concubines identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Notorious Concubines (1968)?
The runtime of The Notorious Concubines (1968) is 90 minutes (approximately 1h 30m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
