Genshi-san

About This Movie

Genshi-san is this curious little slice of 1974, a short film that feels like a fever dream of prehistoric horror. It showcases a giant man rampaging through cities in a way that’s as absurd as it is engaging. The practical effects have that raw quality that is so charming in early Tsukamoto works, making the giant not just a monster but an emblem of chaos. The pacing is a bit erratic, but that adds to its unsettling atmosphere, like an experimental journey into the surreal. There’s a loose connection to Shigeru Mizuki’s stories, which gives it a kind of mythic undertone, almost like a folktale gone wrong. Definitely a unique piece in the realm of horror shorts.

Genshi-san is an intriguing piece for collectors, especially those with a focus on early Japanese horror and experimental cinema. The film was originally released on Super-8, which adds to its historical allure, but copies are relatively scarce. There's a certain cult interest surrounding it, especially given its connection to the works of Shigeru Mizuki, making it a noteworthy find for any serious collector.