Kwaidan
怪談
Japan • 1965
Director
#90Criterion Collection →Synopsis
Taking its title from an archaic Japanese word meaning "ghost story," this anthology adapts four folk tales. A penniless samurai marries for money with tragic results. A man stranded in a blizzard is saved by Yuki the Snow Maiden, but his rescue comes at a cost. Blind musician Hoichi is forced to perform for an audience of ghosts. An author relates the story of a samurai who sees another warrior's reflection in his teacup.
Synopsis
Taking its title from an archaic Japanese word meaning "ghost story," this anthology adapts four folk tales. A penniless samurai marries for money with tragic results. A man stranded in a blizzard is saved by Yuki the Snow Maiden, but his rescue comes at a cost. Blind musician Hoichi is forced to perform for an audience of ghosts. An author relates the story of a samurai who sees another warrior's reflection in his teacup.
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(3)
Credits
Crew
DirectorMasaki Kobayashi
WriterYōko Mizuki
ComposerToru Takemitsu
EditorHisashi Sagara
ProducerShigeru Wakatsuki
Cast
Michiyo Aratamaas First Wife (segment "The Black Hair")
Rentaro Mikunias Husband (segment "The Black Hair")
Misako Watanabeas Second Wife (segment "The Black Hair")
Kenjirō Ishiyamaas Father (segment "The Black Hair")
Ranko Akagias Mother (segment "The Black Hair")