Man-Eater Mountain

Not an animation as such, but a rather unorthodox example of kamishibai or paper theatre drama. Inspector Haido and his police entourage are led by a cruel serial killer, Tashiro, towards the remote mountaintop enshrouded by dark clouds where he is believed to have disposed of his victims. Here they come face to face with their darkest desires. Director Niiya provides the benshi (narration) performance for all the characters, both human and non-human, with sound editing by Takuro Kochi and fellow experimental animator Tetsuji Kurashige featuring as guest vocalist for the bizarre title song, accompanied by Takeshi Tsunoda on shamisen. This is certainly not Jackanory...

The Man-Eater Mountain screening will be followed by a Q&A with the sound designer, Takuro Kochi.