In a time when demons and ghosts threaten to bring total devastation to a powerful kingdom, betrayal from within the powerful ranks of the ruling emperor threatens to bring an entire civilization to its knees in this supernaturally charged martial arts epic from director Yojiro Takita. As dark forces hold a suffocating grip on a once powerful kingdom during the Heian period, the emperor employs the help of the Onmyoji in keeping the malevolent spirits at bay. Though the coming birth of the
emperor's heir offers a glimmer of hope for the kingdom's future, an intimate betrayal leaves the fate of the kingdom in the hands of Seimei (Mansai Nomura) -- the most powerful of the Onmyoji. As Seimei prepares to do battle with his former master Doson (Hiroyuki Sanada), the powers of lightness and dark come together for a battle that will determine the fate for generations to come. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Certainly there are dueling wizards, torchlight swordfights and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon effects. But the moments of action are interspersed with lengthy plot developments that are hard to follow.
A.K.A. The Yin Yang Master, which sounds a bit rubbish. However, my wish to see this did not lead in me being disappointed. The effects and acting aren't always great, but they more than get the job done. In places it is slow paced, but I found the storyline interesting enough to overcome that, and the sets and
costumes were really rather special. For me, the highlight was the appearance of a hannya, for which the make up was actually rather good.
A very interesting historical fantasy! There are a few problems with the film though...such as transitions from one scene to another. Regardless, the story is interesting and the scenery and costumes are mesmerizing!
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