Name: The Great Yokai War
Director: Takashi Miike
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Comedy
Released: 2005-01-01
Duration: 124 min
Rating: 6.3
Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Hiroyuki Miyasako, Kaho Minami, Riko Narumi, Shiro Sano

Watch the trailer

via YouTube

Runtime2h 4m

Released2005

Budget$12.1M

Box office$15.8M

DirectorTakashi Miike

About This Movie

The Great Yokai War, directed by Takashi Miike, is quite the oddball gem. It blends action, comedy, and fantasy in ways that are really unique. The story centers on this young boy who's sort of a misfit, and then he finds himself in this crazy, colorful world of yōkai—these Japanese mythical creatures. What strikes me is the atmosphere; it's playful yet has these darker undertones that reflect the boy's own struggles. The pacing is a bit erratic, but it fits the chaotic nature of the story. Miike's practical effects bring the yōkai to life in charming ways that CGI just can’t replicate. The performances of the yōkai, especially, are really engaging and give it an immersive quality. It's definitely one of those films that leaves a mark.

Unique blend of genres · Practical effects over CGI · Explores themes of friendship and belonging