Mushishi (Bugmaster) (2006)

50% of users liked it
(751 ratings)

Legendary anime director Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira, Steamboy) makes his second foray into the world of live-action with this fantasy film based on a manga by Yuki Urushibara. Mushi-Shi (which was also made into an anime television series) follows a shaman named Ginko (Jo Odagiri) as he wanders feudal… More Legendary anime director Katsuhiro Otomo (Akira, Steamboy) makes his second foray into the world of live-action with this fantasy film based on a manga by Yuki Urushibara. Mushi-Shi (which was also made into an anime television series) follows a shaman named Ginko (Jo Odagiri) as he wanders feudal Japan healing people afflicted with "mushi," insect-like creatures that burrow their way into human bodies and cause mysterious illnesses. Otomo underscores the film's supernatural elements -- which borrow heavily from traditional Asian mythology -- with a slow, contemplative tone and cinematography of the lush Japanese countryside. ~ Sandra Bencic, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: Unrated, 2 hr. 11 min.
Genres: Horror, Art House & International, Science Fiction & Fantasy

In Theaters: Jun 8, 2007 Wide
On DVD: Aug 25, 2009
Studio: Tohokushinsha Film Corp.

No Critic Reviews Found…

Featured Audience Ratings

Justin Y

A science fiction film that will probably not be what you are expecting. This isn't your typical Japanese sci-fi/fantasy film. No action and wacky characters. This isn't a film for the really young ones. Nonetheless, there is more to this movie than meets the… More
A science fiction film that will probably not be what you are expecting. This isn't your typical Japanese sci-fi/fantasy film. No action and wacky characters. This isn't a film for the really young ones. Nonetheless, there is more to this movie than meets the eye.This film moves really slowly. Not only that, but it is over the 2 hour mark. The beginning of this film will seem like it is going nowhere, but if you can follow what is going on and stick with it, the story is actually quite interesting. It is one of those movies where things from the beginning, that may be a little confusing, should make sense the further you go. As I just mentioned, you really do need to pay attention to this film, even with the slow pace, or you will get lost.This film doesn't use a whole lot of CG, but it really is a big part of the story. The good thing about it is that it is nicely done. The "writing sequence" in the middle is pretty spectacular. Honestly, this film got me thinking of The Last Mimzy. Slow, but an interesting story with some outstanding CG.For the most part, the acting is good, although the characters are quite bland. Popular faces play the bulk of the main characters, including Jo Odagiri, Yu Aoi, and Makiko Esumi. I, myself, am happy to see a short part from one of my favorites, Hideo Sakaki.This may not be the greatest sci-fi/fantasy movie ever made, but if you are willing to put up with a snail-paced film with an interesting story, this should be on your "want to see" list.