When I opened Netflix a few days ago, I saw a very familiar character — it's Kusuriuri from Mononoke! At first, I was surprised because I thought it was the series I had watched before, but it's actually a movie that was released this year.
I immediately added it to my list. And today, I finally got the chance to watch it. The movie is called Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain.
Just like the series, the story involves Kusuriuri (medicine seller) traveling around Japan searching for Mononoke to slay. In order to fight against it, he was to draw his special exorcism sword. And, it'll only be possible to do so if he learned the form, truth and reason behind the Mononoke.
In the movie, two lovely ladies Asa and Kame entered the Ooku (inner chambers). It's a place where the women connected to the shogun stay. They could be the wife, concubines, maids, and so on. History-wise, the women in this place also has their own ranking system.
Asa entered the inner chambers to advance her career. She was able to form a wonderful relationship with Kame who dreams of joining the carnal works (since she's not good with all the other tasks) in the Ooku.
However, the inner chambers hold their own dark secrets which the elder tries to conceal. However, with Kusuriuri's help, even the darkest of secrets will finally see light.
Watch as he unravels the horrifying truth in the Ooku. Here's a trailer for the movie below.
It was sooo good! Well, it might be confusing to watch, so I suggest watching the series first. Although they're not related, the way he fights whatever Mononoke there is was better explained in the series.
The animation style in the movie was so much better, though... and the art was more beautiful and vibrant. Well, the series was released way back in 2007, so there's that.
However, what I loved about the series was still evident in the movie... it's the smooth and unique transitions using sliding doors and paintings in traditional Japanese art style. It's just so refreshing to watch. In addition, the sound effects that scream feudal Japan make it even better.
Story-wise, it was intriguingly dark and interesting. Just like the other Mononoke in the series, they're back to seek vengeance. Learning the back stories of the characters and the Japanese tradition introduced in the movie is something to anticipate. :)
But really, I'm just so happy to see Kusuriuri again... and guess what? Another movie is to be released in March next year. I can't wait to watch it! I wonder what kind of adventure and mononoke Kusuriuri are going to face. <3
Obviously, I enjoyed the movie. If you're into Japanese culture and tradition especially the concept of yokai and/or mononoke, then this movie is for you. I hope you find it fun and interesting as much as I did.
Thanks a lot for checking this post. See you around! (^^,)/
