Make the Devil Laugh

Synopsis

Make the Devil Laugh (鬼が笑う), directed by Shuhei Handa and released in 2022, is a gripping Japanese drama that explores the dark intricacies of human nature and morality. The film follows the story of a man who becomes entangled in a series of morally ambiguous events, challenging the boundaries between good and evil. With its intense narrative and compelling character development, the movie delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of one’s actions. The atmospheric cinematography and powerful performances bring a haunting depth to this psychological thriller, making it a thought-provoking experience about the demons within us all.

Cast

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  Shuhei Handa

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  Masahiro Umeda

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  Mariko Akama

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  Tadashi Sakata

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  Mai Ohtani

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  Yoshinori Okada

Reviews

Make the Devil Laugh has received a mix of critical responses, with many praising its atmospheric tension and thematic depth while noting its slow pacing as a potential drawback. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a modest rating with critics appreciating its unique take on psychological drama but commenting on its niche appeal. IMDb users have given the movie an average score around 6.8/10, reflecting appreciation for Shuhei Handa's direction and the lead actor's intense performance, although some viewers found the plot somewhat convoluted. Metacritic reviews echo a similar sentiment, with a score in the mid-60s indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics like The Japan Times complimented the film's bold exploration of moral ambiguity, stating, "Make the Devil Laugh challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths through its well-crafted, if sometimes slow-moving, narrative." Conversely, some reviewers pointed out that the film's pacing might limit its accessibility to a broader audience. Overall, Make the Devil Laugh is regarded as a compelling but challenging piece that will likely appeal most to fans of contemplative, character-driven cinema rather than mainstream viewers.