Kamogawa Horumo

In the movie Kamogawa Horumo, we are introduced to a mystical Japanese game called "Horumo," which is played by university students. The game involves the use of small ghost-like creatures called "Oni" which are summoned by the players to battle each other. The game is played in a large field, and the players have to use their skills to defeat the other team.

Our protagonist, Akira Abe (played by Takayuki Yamada) is an introverted college student who is struggling to make friends. Akira's life changes when he is introduced to the Horumo game by his senior, Kyoko (played by Chiaki Kuriyama). Akira is fascinated by the game, and before long, he is hooked. He begins to train hard and proves to be quite skilled at the game.

As he starts playing against other teams, Akira discovers that there is more to the game than meets the eye. Horumo is not just a game; it has a rich history and involves ancient Japanese rituals. Akira learns that the game is deeply connected to Japanese mythology, and it was once played by samurais.

Further complicating the story is the fact that the Horumo game is not just a simple competition but involves betting. Players can earn and lose money during the game by betting on their team's success. The betting is a source of great tension among the characters, and it is used to add suspense and drama to the film.

As the story progresses, Akira finds himself drawn into a conspiracy that surrounds the game. He discovers that his university's Horumo team has been secretly using a technique called "Bara Suiri" to manipulate the game. This technique allows players to control the Oni and cheat their way to victory. Akira realizes that this cheating has been going on for years and that he must expose it to save the game's integrity.

The plot of the film is fast-paced and exciting, with lots of action-packed sequences. The use of CGI to create the Oni and their battles is excellent, and the cinematography perfectly captures the drama and beauty of the game. The soundtrack of the movie is also outstanding, with a mix of traditional and contemporary Japanese music.

The actors all do a great job in bringing the characters to life. Takayuki Yamada shines as the introverted and vulnerable Akira, while Chiaki Kuriyama adds depth to the character of Kyoko, the fierce and ambitious senior. Gaku Hamada provides comic relief in his role as Takahashi, a quirky and funny character who becomes Akira's friend.

Overall, Kamogawa Horumo is an enjoyable film that combines elements of comedy, romance, and action. It is a fascinating look into Japanese mythology and culture, and it entertains with its blend of fantasy and reality. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves Japanese cinema and wants to experience something unique and different.