This really feels like an old folk tale (I know it is based on one), it just has that essence. The lake scene is so hauntingly lovely. The actors really give it their all by throwing emotion into everything they do, especially when it comes to the suffering. Its so insane that people just became slaves like this. The film also stands on its overt theme of mercy. If this didn’t feel like a fable, it wouldn’t work, but it doesn’t need to be slick to be emotional. Sansho is such a good villain and Zushiō is such a compelling character to follow.
