Kurama Tengu

About This Movie

Kurama Tengu is a fascinating glimpse into the early days of sound cinema in Japan, particularly through the lens of Kanjûrô Arashi. You can feel the struggle of transitioning from silent films in its pacing, which has that almost hypnotic, measured rhythm that comes from a bygone era. The practical effects, especially the costume design of the Kurama tengu, are quite striking and lend an air of mystique. Arashi's performance carries a certain weight, drawing you into the character's struggles and triumphs. It's not just a film; it's a historical artifact showcasing the transformation of the Japanese film industry during a turbulent time.

Kurama Tengu, while not widely known, holds a specific niche appeal among collectors due to its historical context as one of Arashi's earliest works with Nikkatsu. The film's scarcity adds to its allure, with few prints circulating in collector circles. The transition to sound in Japanese cinema makes it a point of interest for those studying film evolution during this period.