I'm not sure how I feel about this one. I liked the ghost story, but the political portions of the film were pretty boring. It has some great moments, but it doesn't reach the level of intensity or artistry that the two other films in the box set do. But for a debut, damn, is this some good stuff.
Not as good as Sunna no Onna but still has some good moments. Another interesting female character. These films remind me of Ace in the Hole . . . cross national connection/influence?
To me it was very reminiscent of Herk Harvey's 'Carnival of Souls'. Similar juxtapositions of existence and non-existence, enigmatic omniscient presence haunting the protagonists, leading them to their demise. The experimentally thematic use of sound..
..had the same mesmerizing effect in both films, made worlds apart, in the same year, exploring similar themes in a similar fashion. It's quite amazing.
As many have stated before me -- an amazing first feature. There are moments throughout this film which, intentional or not, will be repeated in the best and most humble way possible for years to come.
