Kaidan movies revolve around Japanese ghost stories usually set in the Edo period, often inspired by the Japanese folktales. The genre indulges in sophisticated, eerie atmospheres. Plot elements are derived from mysterious folktales and from Buddhist didactic tales of good behaviour. The grudge of a vengeful dead soul is a leitmotif in Kaidan. These five films are among masterpieces of the genre.
KURONEKO (1968)
When the veil between life and death is torn asunder by betrayal and violence, vengeance takes on a spectral form. Explore the chilling depths of Japanese folklore as vengeful spirits rise to seek retribution against those who wronged them, entwining audiences in a mesmerizing tapestry of ghostly apparitions, captivating makeup, and evocative soundscapes.
A man’s quest for samurai glory leads to the tragic demise of his defenseless family at the hands of corrupt warriors. As the story unfolds, themes of vengeance and redemption intertwine, guiding the samurai through a journey of catharsis amidst a backdrop of honor.
ONIBABA (1964)
Step into a realm where the whispers of the wind carry secrets, and the reeds of a desolate field bear witness to the dance of desire and deception. In this haunting tale, a widow, a survivor, and a grieving mother collide in a narrative woven with tension and intrigue, painting a canvas where the boundary between the living and the spirit world blurs.
A haunting must-watch for aficionados of ghostly intrigue, Onibaba captivates with its atmospheric tale of passion and betrayal, making it an essential for lovers of enigmatic thrillers. As the curtains draw to a close, the haunting embrace of the reed-filled expanse shall enthrall, imprisoning the audience within its spectral allure.
KWAIDAN (1964)
In “Kwaidan,” four haunting ghost stories unfurl on screen, showcasing the boundless creative independence of the director’s vivid imagination. With masterful precision, the film captures the essence of each tale, demonstrating the unparalleled prowess of cinematic storytelling. In this captivating narrative, a storyteller guides us through the intricate narratives, seamlessly intertwining them at their beginnings, middles, and ends.
Reflecting the timeless tradition of ancient tales, these stories defy conventional conclusions, yet their open-ended nature proves inconsequential, offering profound insights into the human spirit. Each journey unfolds with distinct narrative styles, captivating viewers with their exploration of the soul. This film is an absolute must-watch, showcasing the enduring allure of storytelling.
UGETSU (1953)
Embark on a journey through 16th century Japan, where dreams of wealth collide with the harsh realities of life and death. In a mesmerizing exploration of human ambition and the price of success, two peasants are drawn into a world where the boundaries between fantasy and reality are blurred, leaving them to confront the true value of their desires.
Each character confronts the consequences of their actions, grappling with a blend of supernatural repercussions and bitter truths, blurring the line between mysticism and reality. The ending also bestows upon the audience a gratifying denouement, leaving them fulfilled as the curtains fall. One of Martin Scorsese’s 10 favorite films, he describes director Mizoguchi as “one of the greatest masters who ever worked in the medium of film.”
EMPIRE OF PASSION (1978)
A tale of forbidden love leads down a dark path of betrayal and murder. Set against the backdrop of desire and deception, this gripping narrative explores the haunting presence of spirits of the past as they exact their vengeance upon the living.
In this riveting tale, audiences are drawn into a captivating web of intrigue, where they are encouraged to decipher the complex motives of the characters and immerse themselves in the mystical jurisdiction of the Japanese ghost world.
These are available for streaming in English on Prime Video:
For Collectors
All five films are included in The Criterion Collection and should be sought out by collectors.
Thanks to Scorsese, The Film Foundation has undertaken a restoration of Ugetsu, and Criterion released this 4K digital version:
UGETSU MONOGATARI (Criterion Collection Blu-ray)
Kwaidan has been included in the Collection with a digital restoration of the director’s original cut:
KWAIDAN (Criterion Collection Blu-ray)
Onibaba Criterion Collection digital release comes with the director’s commentary and interview:
ONIBABA (Criterion Collection Blu-ray)
Kaneto Shindo’s other masterpiece, Kuroneko, has been given a digital restoration by Criterion as well:
KURONEKO (Criterion Collection Blu-ray)
(Criterion DVD of Empire of Passion is currently unavailable on their website and on Amazon, can be found as 2nd hand on eBay.)