I've been in quite a horror mood as of late and for the most part I have been sticking with more modern releases over the more older ones. Though I came across a teaser for an upcoming 4k restoration of a Japanese film that caught my attention immediately. I don't usually check out much from Japan, either old or new, but the visuals in that teaser created a very beautiful idea of a film, and the horror aspects only made it more interesting. I had no idea this was actually an anthology series until I started watching it, to begin with I didn't really read much up on the film beyond its horror and fantasy genre. I knew it was from the 1960s, and that was about it. Part of me was glad that it was an anthology series given the three hour runtime I instantly took note of.
What did initially strike me as I began watching was how beautifully the film was shot. With anamorphic lenses that are cinematic and wide. The colours of early colour film stock just absolutely beautiful in tone. This really amplified the set design of the film's first story, and the consequent ones I should add. The first story had a beautiful atmosphere to it with the overgrown house, the concept of poverty and regret. I won't be reviewing each aspect of each story within this film, but a quick rundown on some features within are worthy of note. Backdrops reminiscent of older films were present, hand painted backgrounds that added to the mystery of the story or atmosphere. Compositions that were dreamy but equally nightmarish, things connected to the world of Japanese folklore.
This is more dated horror, more reliant on the themes and atmosphere of its culture. It is set in older times, which I think speaks more on the nature of those original stories. This definitely adds to the film. Especially with how the environments look. Lots of forestry, woodland, the traditional clothing. Each of these set a tone for the film. With the more serious Japanese aspects of culture and tradition, where things are connected with nature. Remembering that does amplify the elements of horror that do feel more otherworldly. The use of colour in the film only adds to all of these. Strong reds, blues, and whites which primarily dominate the screen. It's a visually colourful film even when it relies heavily on a limited set of colours.
To add, the stories are actually engaging too. Usually with anthologies there tend to be one or two that stand out and the rest are incredibly weak and drag it down. Each one has a style to it, a story that feels captivating. No single story really stands out visually from the others in a way that makes them seem superior or carrying most of the budget and attention. This is raw artistic filmmaking throughout. I could probably blabber on and on about this film, but I think I've said enough here. Definitely worthy of checking out, and I look forward to that 4k restoration as well!
