"Inugami no tatari" (1977), directed by Masahiro Shinoda, is a Japanese supernatural thriller that delves into the realm of ancient curses and vengeful spirits. While the film has its merits, it also suffers from some flaws, ultimately earning a rating of 6/10.
The film's strengths lie in its atmospheric tension and eerie visuals. Shinoda effectively creates a sense of dread and unease, keeping the audience on edge throughout the narrative. The use of traditional Japanese folklore and mythology adds an authentic and chilling touch to the proceedings.
However, the pacing can be sluggish at times, and the character development feels somewhat lacking. The motivations of certain characters are not fully explored, leaving the viewer with unanswered questions.
Additionally, while the film's climax is intense and visually striking, it may feel abrupt or unsatisfying to some viewers, as if the buildup was not fully capitalized upon.
Overall, "Inugami no tatari" is a decent supernatural thriller that effectively taps into Japanese folklore and creates an eerie atmosphere. However, its flaws in pacing and character development prevent it from being a truly outstanding film. For fans of the genre or those interested in Japanese cinema, it may be worth a watch, but it falls short of being a must-see classic.
