In early 19th-century Edo, celebrated novelist Takizawa Bakin (Koji Yakusho) embarks on an ambitious story of eight samurai warriors. They are bound by a mystical orb that grants them supernatural powers to lift the curse afflicting the Satomi clan. Seeking an illustrator, Bakin turns to his close friend, the legendary ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai (Seiyō Uchino). Though Hokusai declines to collaborate, he continues to visit, eager to hear each new chapter as it unfolds.
Nearly three decades pass, but when his life’s work reaches its climax, Bakin’s private life takes its toll. In addition to family strife, he begins to lose his sight. Just as despair sets in, his devoted daughter-in-law, Omichi (Haru Kuroki), offers to assist him, rekindling his determination to complete the masterpiece.
Hakkenden has been adapted for film numerous times since the 1950s, but this adaptation is different. Masterfully directed by Sori Fumihiko (Pinpon, 2002), it effortlessly blends the intimate true story of some of Japan’s most renowned artistic historical figures with the world of fascinating heroes Bakin created, alongside breathtaking visual effects.
Contains mild violence and action.
Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality
八犬伝 (Hakkenden)
Directed by Fumihiko Sori
2024, 149 min.
Starring: Koji Yakusho, Seiyō Uchino, Tao Tsuchiya, Haru Kuroki
All tickets £7.50
Knowing Me, Knowing You.
The True Self in Japanese Cinema.
6 February – 31 March 2026
The UK’s largest festival of Japanese cinema, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme (JFTFP), is back again. This is the place where cinema comes alive!
© 2024 “Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality” Film Partners
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