“Kokuho” is a visually striking movie that blends dramatic storytelling with artistic perfection. The movie follows the life of Kikuo Tachibana, the son of a yakuza boss played by Ryo Yoshizawa, along with his quest to become a renowned kabuki actor.
Kabuki is a performance art where actors both dance and speak to the tune of traditional kabuki music. Imagine a beating drum, sparse string instruments, and a vocalist bellowing “YO!” to accentuate dramatic moments.
Specifically the protagonist is an “onnagata,” a man who performs the female characters in a play. There is a great deal of precision and grace required to be a skilled onnagata performer.
Along the way, Kikuo is mentored by Hanai Hanjiro II, played by the iconic Ken Watanabe. Hanjiro II’s son, Shunsuke Ogaki, played by Ryusei Yokohama, is also training to be a kabuki performer. Kikuo and Shunsuke learn the art while navigating their careers together side-by-side, serving as foils for one another.
The film spends nearly three hours exploring the hero’s journey in a breathtaking fashion. No detail is spared the millionaire treatment. Every hair, both natural and wig, is immaculately placed.
The costumes feel period-accurate, from the sack coats worn in the 60’s, all the way to the beautifully adorned kimonos featured on stage. Make up on performers is heavily applied, creating a glamorous effect.
Next to its contemporary films, such as “Marty Supreme” and “Hamnet”, the film holds its own and stands out in some ways. Those who like Marty for his drive and sacrifice will love “Kokuho,” and the story has emotional depth that rivals “Hamnet”.
“Kokuho” (国宝) is a Japanese phrase that means national treasure, but when referring to a person it closely means “living legend.” The government uses this term to describe objects, but it can also be used for people who possess incredible skill with a traditional Japanese craft.
The film is about men who dance in a feminine way which sets up a delightful viewing experience filled with inspirational moments and emotional catharsis. It explores themes such as brotherhood, masculinity, and the quest to master an art form.
Director Sang-Il Lee deserves to be recognized for coherently exploring so many themes without making the film cumbersome.
Yoshizawa’s acting ability shines on and off the kabuki stage while Yokohama is a charismatic supporting character. The dialogue between the two aspiring performers is sentimental and humorous, which compliments their relationship as adopted-brothers. Their acting dynamic is a highlight of the movie, both display a range of gripping emotions.
Watanabe also adds a domineering presence as the father-figure in the film. The female characters are mainly mothers and lovers, so viewers looking for an outstanding female support character will be disappointed.
My favorite films explore the complexities of human relationships and Kikuo’s story affected me deeply. Combined with the fabulous set and costume design and cinematography, I think it’s worth the IMAX experience. Kokuho will receive a wider U.S. release on February 20th.
Rating: 5/5
