It's always fascinating in some measure to see a Japanese film that had been made at any time from five or ten to fifteen years after World War II. It's well established that the country's industry was heavily monitored by the American occupation, with some matters being sufficiently opposed as to alter how a title looked. I don't think that's necessarily true of this abbreviated period piece, but to know the bounds under which filmmakers like Toshikazu Kono had to operate makes their works more precious. As we tend to assume of period flicks everything here looks incredible; the filming locations, sets, and costume design are a sight for sore eyes, and at no few points Kono illustrates a keen eye for shot composition to accentuate them. The cast give admirable, measured performances, if restrained somewhat by the likewise subdued tone of the feature at large. It's also a boon to us viewers that the stunts and effects to present here look great, if modest in their dispensation; with some smart editing and a smidgen of fight choreography, 'Ghost in the well' treats us to a modicum of welcome extra flavor on top of the narrative it has to impart.
That narrative, contributed by writer Michihei Muramatsu, is small and simple but lightly satisfying - the cinematic equivalent of a short story. This is a rather straightforward drama as samurai Harima is effectively arranged to enter a marriage of sociopolitical convenience, conflicting with the love he shares with maid Kiku. As that conflict bears fruit of terrible consequences, the picture becomes a miniature ghost story as the name suggests, albeit one of tragedy instead of fright. In turn one can say that this is an example of a horror-drama, and it's enjoyable and well made just as it is at only forty-five minutes. I would offer that had the tale been built out a tad more then it could have perhaps been made more lastingly impactful, evoking feelings commensurate with the nature of the ideas at hand. Be that as it may, not every movie needs to be a revelation, and those with an appreciation for the softer side of genre storytelling will find much to like here. Strictly speaking it's not the most robustly absorbing of viewing experiences, and potential viewers should be aware of that low-key slant. Yet whether you're a fan of Japanese cinema, looking for something good but light, or just an avid cinephile, 'Ghost in the well' is a splendid little film that's worth checking out if you have the opportunity.
That narrative, contributed by writer Michihei Muramatsu, is small and simple but lightly satisfying - the cinematic equivalent of a short story. This is a rather straightforward drama as samurai Harima is effectively arranged to enter a marriage of sociopolitical convenience, conflicting with the love he shares with maid Kiku. As that conflict bears fruit of terrible consequences, the picture becomes a miniature ghost story as the name suggests, albeit one of tragedy instead of fright. In turn one can say that this is an example of a horror-drama, and it's enjoyable and well made just as it is at only forty-five minutes. I would offer that had the tale been built out a tad more then it could have perhaps been made more lastingly impactful, evoking feelings commensurate with the nature of the ideas at hand. Be that as it may, not every movie needs to be a revelation, and those with an appreciation for the softer side of genre storytelling will find much to like here. Strictly speaking it's not the most robustly absorbing of viewing experiences, and potential viewers should be aware of that low-key slant. Yet whether you're a fan of Japanese cinema, looking for something good but light, or just an avid cinephile, 'Ghost in the well' is a splendid little film that's worth checking out if you have the opportunity.
