The Legend & Butterfly 4K 2023

Dynastic marriages, intended to strengthen alliances between states, date back to ancient times. As early as the 11th century, Yaroslav the Wise sent his three daughters to various European courts. Other noble figures followed suit. It is a practice that has endured for centuries.

‘Legend and the Butterfly’ (2023) is a dynastic marriage spanning a single human lifetime. We are transported to the second half of the 16th century, to Japan, during the Warring States period. The viewer is presented with a vivid portrayal of the historical and biographical drama of that era. A recreated legend. Thanks to the author, now, today, we are introduced to the nuances and subtleties of that period.

Will they put up with each other, grow to love each other? Is that what people usually say? When far from everything is ideal. When there is no love to speak of. When the groom and bride have never even looked each other in the eye. In our day and age, that’s outrageous. In the old days, on the contrary, it was the norm. Two neighboring feudal lords decide that “Tiger” needs “Snake.” That is precisely how the lands of the bordering fiefdoms are named. What is there more of here—diplomacy? Cunning? Tricks? What is the reason? Unity is salvation. Survival at any cost is the goal. And as for the rest... come what may.

A nearly three-hour period piece where the director generously treats the audience to the relationships of young—and, toward the end, not-so-young—men and women. A pound of salt for two? Did they eat it? Without a doubt. And all this against the backdrop of a turbulent age—war, battles, campaigns, betrayal. Scenes in the castle alternate with bloody carnage “out in the open.” Conversations and dialogues are interspersed with fencing exercises by the warring factions. The screenplay harmoniously combines lyrical vignettes with battle-scene “outbursts” . The film’s atmosphere is charged with female “feminism.” This is where the film begins. The reckless, superficial Oda Nobunaga undergoes a feminine refinement. Nohime, unlike her betrothed, is intelligent. The role of wife weighs heavily on her. She “polishes” him, she “mows the lawn,” she “cultivates and tames” this “rebellious” man. And? But... However, a woman’s place is defined by the era... in which she lives and creates.

Is it just one step from love to hate? And is it really any further from hate to love? That’s how it is here. Exactly so. It’s painful and bitter at times, but the process of getting used to each other is underway... An exciting journey for fans of melodramas is guaranteed. Especially since the color palette, the setting, the costumes, and the actors’ performances are captivating. The faces of the main characters are “after my own heart.” And SHE and HE—they complement each other.