Movie spotlight
Kurama Tengu
This is Kanjûrô Arashi's first film with Nikkatsu after his independent production company went bankrupt (many of these independent companies went bankrupt shortly after the transition to sound). As he is mostly famous for his portrait of Kurama tengu (and on the other hand, he's the definitive actor for Kurama Tengu as well), Nikkatsu made another version of Kurama tengu, co-directed by Masahiro Makino & Sadatsugu Matsuda who are both sons of Shozo Makino. Scripted by Yoshitake Hisa, a jidaigeki specialist who later scripted several Toei All-Star Jidaigeki.
Insights
Plot Summary
This film follows the adventures of the legendary Kurama Tengu, a mystical mountain spirit who descends to the human world to uphold justice. He becomes involved in a conflict between warring samurai factions, using his supernatural powers and martial arts skills to protect the innocent and thwart evil plots. The story culminates in a climactic battle where Kurama Tengu confronts his adversaries.
Critical Reception
While specific critical reviews from 1938 are scarce, the film is considered a classic example of early Japanese adventure cinema, notable for its period setting and action sequences. It has been appreciated for its faithful adaptation of folklore and its contribution to the genre's development.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its engaging portrayal of a mythological figure.
Appreciated for its historical setting and action sequences.
Considered an important film in early Japanese cinema history.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this historical film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The Kurama Tengu is a significant figure in Japanese folklore, often depicted as a powerful, long-nosed goblin or bird-like creature with supernatural abilities.
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