Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Japan
A Deep Dive into the 1934 Vision of Noburō Ōfuji
Witnessing the stylistic transformation of Animation through Hyoei and Heibei's Tengu Hunt reveals the global recognition that Noburō Ōfuji garnered after the release of Hyoei and Heibei's Tengu Hunt. Serving as a mirror to the anxieties of a changing world, offering layers of thematic complexity that demand repeated viewing.
In Hyoei and Heibei's Tengu Hunt, Noburō Ōfuji pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
The visual language of Hyoei and Heibei's Tengu Hunt is defined by its use of shadows and framing, a hallmark of Noburō Ōfuji's style. By utilizing a 1934-era palette, the film creates an immersive experience that perfectly complements its Animation themes.
| Cinematography | Handheld |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Noburō Ōfuji's style and the core Animation narrative.
A cute and comical tale involving goblin-like creatures from Japanese folklore called "tengu".
Decades after its release, Hyoei and Heibei's Tengu Hunt remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Noburō Ōfuji's status as a master of the craft in Japan and beyond.