The 12 Day Tale of the Monster that Died in 8

Synopsis

The 12 Day Tale of the Monster that Died in 8 is a 2020 Japanese fantasy drama directed by Kōji Shiraishi and starring Takumi Saitoh. The film explores a surreal and emotional narrative centered around a mysterious monster whose life and existence unfold over twelve days, despite having died in eight. Blending elements of fantasy with deeply human themes, the story delves into the nature of life, death, and legacy through atmospheric storytelling and poignant character interactions. The film's unique structure and contemplative pacing evoke a meditative experience, inviting viewers to reflect on mortality and the impact of fleeting lives in a mystical setting.

Cast

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  Takumi Saitoh

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  Non

• So Takei

  So Okamoto

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  Moeka Hoshi

  Kasu Moe

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  Shinji Higuchi

Reviews

Critical reception for The 12 Day Tale of the Monster that Died in 8 has been mixed, reflecting diverse opinions about its experimental approach. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.4/10, indicating average to below-average viewer enjoyment. Some critics praise the film's imaginative storyline and Takumi Saitoh's committed performance; for example, reviewers have highlighted the film's evocative atmosphere and artistic ambition. However, others find the pacing sluggish and the narrative somewhat obscure, which can detract from emotional engagement. Rotten Tomatoes does not feature a consensus or rating for this title, reflecting its niche appeal and limited international release. Metacritic also lacks aggregated scores, underscoring that the film remains under the radar for many mainstream critics. Overall, The 12 Day Tale of the Monster that Died in 8 appeals primarily to viewers who appreciate contemplative, visually rich fantasy dramas, although some may find its cryptic story challenging to connect with fully.