In my opinion there is no comparison of this movie to Memoirs of a Geisha. 2 different stories, 2 different ideas! I have studied the geisha culture for many years. Although I find the situations and acting farcical, the effort of getting seem like it could happen are spot on. The kimono and other attention to detail is perfect. The katsura (wigs), kimono, atmosphere of an okiya was exactly right.
Of course geisha would not behave in the manner that they have in this movie. They are much more disciplined and discreet. They would spend many hours practising their lessons of dance, music, etc. They are not prostitutes and never have been, so therefore having sex in an ochaya (tea house) is extremely unlikely to happen. Also the practise of mizuage wasn't correct in this film. It did happen, no longer happens, but did not occur just after a girl became a maiko. It usually took place a couple of years into her apprenticeship. And 3 million yen is pretty excessive even for a very wealthy man to spend on just any old maiko.
This movie paid much attention to small details. And it starred Japanese actresses who can wear kimono and hairstyles correctly. That made such a big difference to the overall feeling of the film. I would highly recommend this film for any geisha, kimono enthusiast. It was entertaining. It is NOT a documentary, so don't expect one.
