Kamogawa Horumo: Battle League in Kyoto (2009)

Featured Audience Ratings

• Justin Y

  
  Based on Manabu Makime's novel by the same name, <i>Kamogawa Horumo</i> is a comedy by Katsuhide Motoki that holds back on the fun.<p>After a mediocre first few minutes, the film quickly begins building up the story and characters in a positive way. The story… More
  Based on Manabu Makime's novel by the same name, <i>Kamogawa Horumo</i> is a comedy by Katsuhide Motoki that holds back on the fun.<p>After a mediocre first few minutes, the film quickly begins building up the story and characters in a positive way. The story gradually lures the viewer in as it gets ready to unleash the spirits AKA "Oni." Eventually the spirits finally make it on screen and the film is at a high. Unfortunately, the story decides to throw the interesting stuff on the side and go back to character relationships, thus bringing the entertainment factor down until the grand finale.</p><p>That isn't to say that this film is a letdown. The characters and story aren't boring and the battle scenes with the "Oni" are hilariously enjoyable. It's just that with a 113 minute run time, the battle scenes and "Oni" aren't given the airtime that they deserve.</p><p>The acting is quite good. Takayuki Yamada, Gaku Hamada, and Chiaki Kuriyama put up entertaining performances to help keep the film alive when the "Oni" are away.</p><p>After the battle is complete, <i>Kamogawa Horumo</i> is a worthwhile watch. "HORUMO!"</p>