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GONZA THE SPEARMAN |
Original Title: Yari no Gonza
Company: Shochiku Films Production Year: 1986 Format: 16:9 Widescreen - Color - 126 mins - English Subtitles Cast: KATO Haruko, OTAKI Hideji, KAWARAZAKI Choichiro, IWASHITA Shima Directed by: SHINODA Masahiro Where to Buy: www.amazon.com |
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The beautiful Bizan (Higuchi Kanako) plots to wreck havoc in old 19th century Edo to bring the evil Queen Ashura back to life. Who can stop them? Not Sakura and the Flower Brigade (which would have been cool), but an elite government force dedicated to defending the capital from demons. Takita Yojiro's fantasy/martial arts epic is a film version of the hit kabuki play. The film even stars Ichikawa Somegoro ("Koi no Mon"), a kabuki actor reprising his stage role as the demon-slaying hero. It's a clever blend of everything from horror to comedy to drama, it's targeted to a young adult and teen audience. Kabuki Theatre normally uses an all-male cast, even in the female roles, but the director wisely chose the beautiful Miyazawa Rei ("Twilight Samurai") as the love interest. Takita previously directed the samurai drama "Mibu Gishiden" (2003). Tons of great action and special effects! |
