Don't let the theme turn you off , this film needs to be re-evaluated and remastered. I reckon the best way to introduce this epic to a Western audience is in a double bill with Triumph Of The Will. Although quite different in style there are plenty of thematic similarities , though I do prefer the eye popping Technicolor of Red Detachment to the grim paganism of Triumph.
I would recommend Red Detachment to those who like 60's eurocinema. The starting scenes of the movie reminded me of a Mario Bava film.
Definitely the film is ripe for rediscovery.
Review of The Red Detachment of Women
