Backdrop preview The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono backdrop
The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono

The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono (2020)

Nov 06, 2020 1h 52m Fantasy History

Rai, a frustrated student and part-time labourer, is wandering home after setting up a museum exhibition on the classic novel "The Tale of Genji". There is a blinding flash of light and he finds himself mysteriously time-slipped into the Heian period, the setting for the famous novel. Armed with a pamphlet on the history of the period and a bottle of headache tablets he passes as an onmyoji (magical protector of the capital) and is hired by the emperor’s wife Nyogo Kokiden. Fearless and coldly analytical she plots to have her son take over the Emperor’s position. Rai is expected to help. This light-hearted historical fantasy is a treat for lovers of sumptuous kimono.

Directed by Hitomi Kuroki

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Hitomi Kuroki
Writer
  • Kumi Tawada
Producer
  • Yumiko Takebe
  • Wakana Kanno

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Hitomi Kuroki brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2020, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2020, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike A Knight in Camelot, which focuses more on action than character development, The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Time Traveler's Wife and A.R.O.G explore similar territory, The Devil Wears Ju-Ni Hitoe Kimono stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: November 6, 2020
  • Runtime: 1h 52m

Similar Movies