The third entry in Daiei’s Yokai trilogy, also known as Yokai Monsters: Along with Ghosts, is rather more action-oriented, with a gang in pursuit of a clever little girl who witnessed their murder of her grandfather, and a wandering swordsman (Kôjirô Hongô) taking a hand while the girl searches for her missing father. The supernatural is not neglected, as the spirits are angered by the murder of the grandfather while at prayer, although the first two films really offer much more in terms of on-screen abundance of spirits. Still, an engaging story and appealing leads keep this one entertaining so long as one isn’t expecting the focus to be on the Yokai.

  Recommended. Otto finds this one pleasing enough to relax.

Movie 265 for 2021.