Suffering of Ninko
Suffering of Ninko

Movie spotlight

Suffering of Ninko

2016
Movie
70 min
Japanese

Ninko is a virtuous Buddhist monk who’s embarrassed to discover that he’s irresistible to many women (and some men). After a particularly troubling encounter with a masked woman, he undertakes a journey to "purify" himself, hoping that this will equip him to rebuff sexual advances. He meets the samurai Kanzo and hears of a village decimated by the rapacious mountain goddess Yama-onna, who kills men to absorb their energy. Finally Ninko has a quest to fulfill…

Insights

IMDb5.5/10
Director: Mishio KōnoGenres: Drama, Horror

Plot Summary

In a remote village, Ninko, a young man ostracized for his unusual appearance, lives a life of isolation. When a series of strange and gruesome deaths plague the community, suspicion falls upon Ninko. As the villagers' fear and prejudice escalate, Ninko must confront his past and the true nature of the evil that haunts the village.

Critical Reception

Suffering of Ninko received mixed to negative reviews, with many critics citing its bleak tone and convoluted narrative as significant drawbacks. While some appreciated its attempt at a unique folk horror aesthetic and its exploration of themes like ostracization and superstition, the film was often criticized for its lack of clarity and underdeveloped characters.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised by some for its atmospheric dread and folk horror elements.

  • Criticized for a confusing plot and underdeveloped characters.

  • Seen as an ambitious but ultimately flawed attempt at a dark fairy tale.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film's distinctive visual style is heavily influenced by traditional Japanese folklore and woodblock prints.

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