Just saw 「花戦さ」(Hana Ikusa, "Flower Battle")
English title is Flower and Sword. Director is Tetsuo Shinohara,
with screenplay by Yoshiko Morishita.
Based on the novel by Tadashi Onitsuka.
Released: 2017年6月3日
A film worth watching, the initial impression is that
one is watching a period film with a quirky Buddhist monk
who practices ikebana (flower arranging) whilst meeting up
with some of Japan's most important historical figures,
Of course the film is all that, but a lot more, and really merits watching.
Incredibly strong cast, headed by Mansai Nomura, and also starring
Ennosuke Ichikawa, Koichi Sato, Kiichi Nakai, Kuranosuke Sasaki, Katsumi
Takahashi, and Masato Wada.
But wait! There's more! JPH!P favorite, Aoi Morikawa, plays a key role in the film,
and she absolutely shines in her role as a girl brought back to the monastery
after being found near death by Senko Ikenobo, the monk played by Nomura san.
The film heads into very dramatic territory, and the concept of the divine nature
of forgiveness, transcending all religions, is beautifully told.
Special shout out to Aoi san and Nomura san, for their fine performances.
6月3日公開 映画「花戦さ」公開直前特別映像(ダイジェスト)!!