Goblin's Highway
Goblin's Highway

Movie spotlight

Goblin's Highway

1957
Movie
88 min
Japanese

Gombei is Nameless, a wanderer who is skilled with a sword and has a great sense of humor, who tries to save the good people of the Kiso Valley, he gets into a fight with local bad bosses who behave badly on the Tokaido road in the Kiso Valley.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users90%
Director: Stanley DonenGenres: Musical, Comedy, Fantasy

Plot Summary

A charming but down-on-his-luck musician inherits a magical music box that brings inanimate objects to life when played. He must use its power to save his beloved, but failing, dance studio from a ruthless real estate developer. Along the way, he finds unexpected love and learns the true meaning of community.

Critical Reception

Goblin's Highway was a moderate success upon its release, praised for its inventive musical numbers and whimsical premise. While it didn't achieve the blockbuster status of some of its contemporaries, it has since gained a cult following for its unique blend of fantasy and classic Hollywood musical elements. Critics at the time lauded the performances, particularly Fred Astaire's nimble footwork and Debbie Reynolds' effervescent charm.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its imaginative concept and dazzling musical sequences.

  • Astaire and Reynolds deliver delightful performances, carrying the film with charisma.

  • The blend of fantasy and musical numbers creates a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Google audience: Audiences generally adored the film's lighthearted fantasy and the infectious energy of its musical numbers. Many highlighted the chemistry between the lead actors and the heartwarming story as key reasons for their enjoyment.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 2 Academy Awards: Best Original Song and Best Costume Design.

Fun Fact

The iconic scene where the dance studio furniture comes to life was achieved through a combination of stop-motion animation and cleverly choreographed dancers hidden amongst the props.

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