HINAKURI 2022

A haunting and atmospheric tale set in rural Japan, HINAKURI follows a young woman who returns to her ancestral village after her father's death. She uncovers dark secrets and unsettling traditions that blur the lines between reality and folklore. As she delves deeper, she finds herself entangled in a web of mystery and dread, questioning her own sanity and the true nature of her family's legacy.

HINAKURI was met with a mixed to positive reception. Critics praised its unsettling atmosphere, strong performances, and deliberate pacing, noting its unique blend of psychological horror and rural gothic elements. However, some found the narrative occasionally obscure and the ending somewhat ambiguous, leading to a polarized audience response.

• Praised for its suffocating atmosphere and masterful direction.

• Noted for compelling performances that anchor the film's psychological tension.

• Some critics found the plot's ambiguity and slow burn challenging.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's unique, eerie mood and the thematic depth exploring Japanese traditions and family secrets. While many found it a captivating and thought-provoking experience, a segment of viewers expressed that the deliberate pacing and abstract narrative required significant engagement and patience.

Nominated for Best Cinematography at the Japan Academy Film Prize.

The film's distinctive visual style was heavily influenced by traditional Japanese ink wash paintings, with the director meticulously planning each shot to evoke a sense of unease and timelessness.