Toire no Hanako-san: Shin Gekijôban

Hanako-san is a well-known character from an urban legend, dating back 70 years. There are at least 8 movies about her. I haven't seen all yet, but this is the best so far.

We get to follow the transfer student Sayo as she arrives at a new school, and eventually encounters Hanako-san. But that is not her only problem, as the humans are scarier than the ghosts.

With few locations, few actors, and a small scope, it seems low-budget, but the presentation and editing is flawless, and effort has been made to create an ominous atmosphere.

With no jokes and barely any jump scares, it becomes a serious story with a sinister mood and a feeling of threat in most scenes. Because of the focus of creepiness, and lack of action and spectacle, some people might find it too slow. At a length of around 90 minutes it is mercifully short though, with no filler.

Here, no one is free from guilt, and many suffer from bad conscience. To me, one of the most painful things is to see someone be coerced to do something they know is wrong.

The school drama has a few clichés, but is still intense and oppressive. As for the ghost, it is not out to scare people pointlessly. There is no long hair, no distorting mirror, and no shower scene. Every ghost sighting is meaningful and advances the plot.

At first, it was hard to believe that a silly urban legend could be made into an interesting plot. But looking closely, it reaches medium complexity, with nice twists. Furthermore, it is very logical with barely any plot holes.

The actors do a good job at upholding the dark mood. There is no weak link, which is important to not lose concentration.

I have been looking for horror movies in the style of 25 years ago, and I'm happy to finally having found it.