Bakin & Hokusai

This film presents an unexpectedly captivating blend of an author's biopic and the adaptation of his literary works, with both aspects receiving approximately equal screen time and alternating between scenes.

The biographical portion is masterfully carried by Yakusho Koji, who plays Bakin, and stands out as the overall stronger part of the movie. Meanwhile, the "adaptation" segment, though engaging, occasionally takes itself too seriously for what is essentially pulp fantasy entertainment. The contrast in tone, color palette, and music between the "real" and "fantasy" worlds is particularly notable.

One of the film's highlights is the portrayal of Bakin's relationships, including his interactions with Hokusai and his evolving connections with friends and family as they grow, live, and pass away. Conversely, as Hakkenden is one of the longest novels in Japanese literature, compressing it into roughly one hour (half the movie's duration) can make it challenging to follow without prior familiarity with the story and characters.

Overall, the film is both entertaining and unique enough to merit a watch.