This is an anthology of four traditional Japanese ghost stories.
The Black Hair - a samurai (Rentarô Mikuni) regrets the choices he made in service of ambition.
The Woman in the Snow - a woodcutter (Tatsuya Nakadai) has a terrifying run-in with a snow demon (Keiko Kishi).
Hoichi the Earless - a blind monk (Katsuo Nakamura) is summoned to perform a historical epic for its victims.
In a Cup of Tea - a samurai (Kan'emon Nakamura) is tormented by a ghostly presence reflected in his teacup.
I don't throw the word "masterpiece" around very often so trust me when I say it. Kwaidan is a masterpiece of Japanese cinema. The scare factor of this is very low while the art factor is extremely high. Every scene is basically a painting that moves. It is a stunning film. The performances feel a little wooden, a little stage-y, but it just adds to the vibe. It does run a little over three hours but I did not feel it.
It's streaming on the Criterion Channel and also (sigh) Max. Treat your eyeballs.
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