The highly stylised Kabuki-esque aesthetic and ghostly soundscape of this 1964 cinematic gem create a dream-like state that makes no attempt to be realistic. Director Masaki Kobayashi spent five years in preparation before he started shooting; painting and building the elaborate sets almost single handedly and renting an aircraft hanger to use as a sound stage. The opening credits establish the unforgettable restrained beauty that runs throughout the four stories which make up the portmanteau film [read more]