Fools on the road

Many of you are familiar with Jippensha Ikku's comedic classic Tōkaidōchū Hizakurige known in the West as Shank's Mare. If not you are in for a treat if you decide to read the book.

My latest addition to my recommended title lists is a movie adaptation of, or more accurately a movie inspired by the story of two travelers on the road in Edo Period Japan. In this case there are three travelers, and that just adds to the humor.

This is Yajikita Dochu Teresuko - Hana no Oedo Ban. The main reason I bought this movie is that Yaji is played by Nakamura Kanzaburō, one of my favorite actors. This particular movie has yet to get a U.S. release but the Japanese DVD has excellent subtitles.

This funny and gentle film is a worthy addition to any serious collection of Japanese cinema.