八犬伝 (Hakkenden)

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026

Dir. SORI Fumihiko
2024 | 149 mins | Japan | Japanese with English Subtitles
YAKUSHO Koji, UCHINO Seiyo, TSUCHIYA Tao, KUROKI Haru

A retelling of the classic story, revealing the hidden tale behind it.

In early 19th-century Edo, a celebrated novelist and master, Bakin (YAKUSHO Koji) embarks on an ambitious new story of eight samurai warriors, which he shares with his friend, the legendary artist Hokusai in the hope he will illustrate the finished tale. In Bakin’s story, each samurai bears a mystical orb that grants them supernatural powers.

Nearly three decades pass, and the tale has become Bakin’s life’s work — now serialised and nearing its climactic battle between good and evil. But Bakin’s private life takes its toll; in addition to family strife, he begins to lose his sight. Just as despair sets in, his devoted daughter-in-law, Omichi (KUROKI Haru), makes an unexpected offer to help him continue, rekindling his determination to complete the work.

Hakkenden is a story that has been adapted for film numerous times since the 1950s. But this adaptation is different. Masterfully directed by SORI Fumihiko (Pinpon, 2002), Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality blends the intimate true story of some of Japan’s most renowned artistic historical figures with the spectacular battles of eight fictional warriors. It reveals the truth behind the classic household novel, featuring some of Japan’s finest actors alongside breathtaking visual effects.

Content warning: Contains mild violence and action

Image: © 2024 “Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality” Film Partners

The Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026

Knowing Me, Knowing You: The True Self in Japanese Cinema

The UK’s largest festival of Japanese cinema, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme (JFTFP), is back again. This is the place where cinema comes alive!

Knowing others — let alone ourselves — is not easy, as we behave differently depending on the relationship, environment, or even intention. In an age of advanced digital technology, where imagery can be readily manipulated, it is even harder to define who we, or others, truly are. This notion of identifying the self has been repeatedly explored in cinematic narratives in various ways. However, is it really possible to know our true selves? And if so, would such revelations lead to happiness and freedom, or might they instead bring disastrous and harsh consequences? With these questions in mind, the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026 showcases some of the most unmissable Japanese films nationwide across the UK. From powerful social crime dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to gender-defining films, fantasy, and horror, the programme offers something for everyone.

Co-organised with the Japan Foundation

Major supporter: Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation

Sponsors in Kind: Calbee, Clearspring, Pentel, Athletia and SUQQU

Venue: Studio 74, Exeter Phoenix

*Subject to a £1.50 ticketing system charge. We don’t charge this to make a profit. Find out more >>