Watch The Great Yokai War

The Great Yokai War from 2005 is a Japanese fantasy movie directed by Takashi Miike. It tells the story of a young boy named Tadashi Ino (Ryunosuke Kamiki) who is chosen to save the world from evil Yokai. Yokai are Japanese mythical creatures that can be helpful or harmful to humans. They can transform into humans or animals, and they have supernatural powers. Tadashi is initially reluctant to accept his mission, but as he learns more about the Yokai, he becomes determined to save the world.

The movie begins with Tadashi on a school trip, exploring a forest. He comes across a small shrine, where he meets a strange old man, Yatsuka (Hiroyuki Miyasako), who tells him that he is the chosen one, the Kirin Rider. The Kirin is a mythical creature that represents justice and purity. Yatsuka gives Tadashi a mystical sword and tells him to keep it safe.

Tadashi returns home, still confused about his mission. He discovers that his father, a famous artist, has gone missing. Tadashi's family runs a shrine, and his grandfather tells him that they have a duty to protect the world from evil Yokai. He explains that the Yokai are angry with humans because they have destroyed the environment and neglected their duties.

Tadashi's journey to becoming the Kirin Rider is filled with obstacles. He encounters various Yokai, both good and bad, and struggles to find his place in the mystical world. He learns that his father has been captured by evil Yokai, who plan to use him to open the gates to the underworld. Tadashi and his newfound Yokai allies must work together to stop them.

The movie is visually stunning, with beautiful landscapes and intricate costumes. The Yokai are portrayed with impressive makeup and special effects, making them look both realistic and fantastical. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, with a mix of traditional and modern Japanese music.

One of the standout characters is Sunekosuri (Chiaki Kuriyama), a mischievous Yokai who initially causes trouble for Tadashi but eventually becomes his ally. She is playful, but also tough and resourceful. Her dynamic with Tadashi is one of the highlights of the movie.

The Great Yokai War is a coming-of-age story that combines elements of adventure, fantasy, and environmentalism. It explores the theme of humans' relationship with nature, and the consequences of neglecting it. It also touches on the importance of family, loyalty, and perseverance.

Overall, The Great Yokai War is a must-watch for fans of Japanese fantasy and folklore. It is an imaginative and heartfelt movie that will leave you feeling inspired and enchanted.

The Great Yokai War is a 2005 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 4 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 63.