Wow.

I finally settled in to watch this entire film and it was like watching a living, breathing piece of art set to one of the creepiest scores ever. It is poetic. It is nightmarish. It is definitely a movie that stays in your head long after it ends.

The first 3 tales definitely have an intensity that pulls you in and keeps you there. I found myself watching Hoichi the Earless and screaming out in realization, "HIS EARS!" at that climatic scene. The way that unfolded was masterful storytelling.

Loved the surreal atmosphere - the colors in the skies were imaginative and unique and the sound effects on Black Hair? Bone chilling.

Japanese films are truly in a class all their own. There are just certain visual elements (like characters facial expressions, the eyes especially) that are very arresting and visceral.

"You unlock this door with the key of imagination..."