The Birth of Japanese Cinema and Japanese Horror The first Japanese movie, and then a horror movie, that’s the beginning! The actors of the classical theater perform on stage with curious scenery - a giant trunk and bumps in the forest. Since the film is black and white (1899, after all), we can only guess the percentage of green on the stage, but judging by the title, red and yellow leaves prevailed there. Although, perhaps, the title of the film is consistent with the name of the dance performed by the princess in a luxurious dress.
It is striking that even in the XIX century, Japanese cinema showed the features that will be developed in the future: serenity is combined with danger, and monsters and battles have a sophistication that almost does not happen in Western films. Having uncovered the deception and discovered the forest demon, the fearless warrior enters into battle with him, maintaining balance and purposefulness. A fantastic enemy in a kind of robe and mask allows us to consider “Contemplation of the Autumn Leaves” a full-fledged fantasy, even more vivid than the “Devil’s Castle” shot in Europe. Moreover, already in 1899 in Japanese cinema, we could see special, unique monsters - without outstanding fangs, but short and with dangerous hair. Doesn't that sound intriguing?
Since this film is a recording of theatrical performance, it allows you to evaluate the Japanese theater. If before watching this tape you did not feel interest in him, then now you should have this interest. This is an art that you want to enjoy again and again. For this reason, photography and cinema appeared. This is a story that will make history.
10 out of 10