The Broken Commandment is a Japanese drama film released in 1948. The film explores the theme of caste discrimination prevalent in Japan during the pre-war period and immediately after the end of World War II. The film is set in 1946 and revolves around the character of Ushimatsu, who is a successful businessman and belongs to the "burakumin" community, which is considered a lower caste in Japanese society.
Ushimatsu's father had warned him never to reveal his caste identity in public, as it would be detrimental to his financial and social status. However, Ushimatsu's belief in equality and justice is put to test when he meets an activist fighting against the caste system. The activist encourages Ushimatsu to stand up for his rights and fight against the discrimination that he and his community face.
Ushimatsu's struggle to come to terms with his identity and his place in society forms the crux of the film. He faces immense pressure from his family and society, who expect him to conform to traditional norms and beliefs. However, he ultimately finds the courage to confront his past and fight for his dignity and rights.
The Broken Commandment was a critical and commercial success and is considered a landmark film in Japanese cinema. The film was praised for its strong message of social justice and equality, and its portrayal of the caste system in Japan sparked a national dialogue on the issue. The film also marked the beginning of a new era in Japanese cinema, as it broke away from the traditional genres and narratives prevalent at the time.
