‘A Samurai in Time’ Gets European Premiere at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest

Pigeon Shrine FrightFest is set to host the European premiere of A Samurai in Time, offering audiences a unique blend of historical drama and modern-day adventure. Screening at Discovery Screen 3 on Saturday, 24 August, and Sunday, 25 August, this 2024 Japanese film directed by Junichi Yasuda promises a memorable cinematic experience. This premiere follows its international debut at the Fantasia Festival.

Set during the closing days of the Edo period in Kyoto, the film begins with a samurai, Kosaka Shinzaemon, played by Makiya Yamaguchi, preparing for a duel against a ronin. A sudden flash of lightning transports him to present-day Kyoto, where the duel location has become a film set for jidaigeki (period drama) TV shows and movies. Clad in his traditional samurai attire, Shinzaemon is mistaken for an extra and thrust into the world of movie production.

Due to his authentic appearance and language, Shinzaemon quickly becomes a favourite on the sets, taking on the role of a kirareyaku—a swordsman whose job is to die spectacularly on screen. As he navigates this new reality, he finds himself grappling with the stark contrast between his time and the modern world.

The film pays homage to the golden era of samurai cinema, weaving together elements of humour, drama, and poignant reflection. It is dedicated to Seizo Fukumoto, an iconic actor known for his numerous on-screen deaths in jidaigeki films. Director Junichi Yasuda’s love for the genre shines through in this heartfelt tribute, making A Samurai in Time a must-watch for fans of those classic samurai films.

Junichi Yasuda, the visionary behind this project, has a diverse background in videography and filmmaking. His experience ranges from corporate videos to low-budget films. With A Samurai in Time, Yasuda has created a film that resonates with his passion for samurai culture and cinema. The film boasts a talented cast, including Makiya Yamaguchi as Kosaka Shinzaemon, Norimasa Fuke as Kyoichiro Kazami / Hikokuro Yamagata, Yuno Sakura as Yuko Yamamoto, and Rantaro Mine as Sekimoto.

Shot on location at Toei Studios Kyoto, the meticulous attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and choreography is clear. The sword fighting choreography by Kazuto Seike adds an extra layer of realism, making the action sequences both thrilling and believable.

As the 25th year of Pigeon Shrine FrightFest approaches, A Samurai in Time stands out as one of the festival’s highlights, giving some short respite from the blood and gore found elsewhere and highlighting the diversity of this year’s slection of films.

Be sure to catch A Samurai in Time at Pigeon Shrine FrightFest on 24 and 25 August for an unforgettable adventure that bridges the gap between the past and the present, honouring the legacy of samurai cinema while offering a fresh and innovative perspective.

For more information on the film and to purchase tickets, visit the official Pigeon Shrine FrightFest website.

A Samurai in Time trailer