Plot: Watanuki is a young boy who can see ayakashi (yokai who take hold of people and cause them harm). He isn't too happy with his gift and would prefer to be an average high school kid. One day he notices a peculiar butterfly, different from the yokai that usually haunt him. He follows the butterfly and ends up at a little store at the end of a small alleyway. There he meets Yuko, the owner of the store. She is a witch willing to grant his most precious wish, as long as Watanuki pays the appropriate price. What
Watches
January 21, 2023
Reportedly Ninagawa had wanted to adapt the xxxHolic manga for a long time, it's not difficult to see why. The setting and subject matter are perfect for Ninagawa's signature style, and she really made the best of it. This is maximalist entertainment pur sang, a true explosion of color and style. The sets and cinematography are insane, but that's what I've come to expect from Ninagawa. The score is pretty cool too, the performances are solid and the plot is interesting, though possibly a little too muddy for those expecting a simple fantasy flick. Ninagawa delivers yet again and is well on her way to establishing herself as one of my favorite directors of all time.