Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme 2026 Saturday 14th March
In early 19th-century Edo, celebrated novelist Takizawa Bakin (Koji Yakusho) embarks on an ambitious story of eight samurai warriors. They are bound by a mystical orb that grants them supernatural powers to lift the curse afflicting the Satomi clan. Seeking an illustrator, Bakin turns to his close friend, the legendary ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai (Seiyō Uchino). Though Hokusai declines to collaborate, he continues to visit, eager to hear each new chapter as it unfolds.
Nearly three decades pass, but when his life’s work reaches its climax, 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 (Haru Kuroki), offers to assist him, rekindling his determination to complete the masterpiece.
Hakkenden has been adapted for film numerous times since the 1950s, but this adaptation is different. Masterfully directed by Sori Fumihiko (Pinpon, 2002), it effortlessly blends the intimate true story of some of Japan’s most renowned artistic historical figures with the world of fascinating heroes Bakin created, alongside breathtaking visual effects.
Contains mild violence and action.
Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality八犬伝 (Hakkenden)Directed by Fumihiko Sori2024, 149 min.Starring: Koji Yakusho, Seiyō Uchino, Tao Tsuchiya, Haru Kuroki
Knowing Me, Knowing You.The True Self in Japanese Cinema.6 February – 31 March 2026The 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!
© 2024 “Hakkenden: Fiction and Reality” Film Partners
01539 725133
- Tickets can be collected 30 minutes before performance
- Photo ID required for ticket collection
- Uncollected tickets held until 15 minutes before show time
- Limited on-site parking available
- Public car parks within 5-minute walking distance
- Some street parking on Highgate
- Disabled parking spaces near main entrance
- Wheelchair accessible venue
- Designated wheelchair spaces in main auditorium
- Companion seats available
- Step-free access to ground floor areas
- No food or drinks in performance spaces
- Mobile phones must be switched off
- Photography/recording prohibited during performances
- Smart casual attire recommended
- Child-friendly performances clearly marked
- Age recommendations provided for each show
- Under-16s must be accompanied by adult
- Babes in arms not permitted for most adult performances
