The Claws of the Divine Beast Poster

The Claws of the Divine Beast 1980

★ 6.01 votes45 min📅 1980-06-20

Dive into the shadowy depths of 1980 with *The Claws of the Divine Beast*, a gripping mystery TV movie directed by the legendary Seijun Suzuki.

Director: Seijun Suzuki

Cast

Naoko Ohtani
Naoko Ohtani
Hiroshi Sekiguchi
Hiroshi Sekiguchi
Hiroshi Kondō
Hiroshi Kondō
Yuki Kimura
Isamu Nagato
Isamu Nagato
Kō Nishimura
Kō Nishimura
Asao Uchida
Asao Uchida

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *The Claws of the Divine Beast* (1980) about?

When two elderly men in Yokohama clash over a Tang dynasty artifact, one ends up dead with mysterious claw marks on his face. A detective investigates, uncovering a web of deceit tied to Japan's wartime actions in China. The case forces him to confront long-buried secrets.

Who directed *The Claws of the Divine Beast*?

The film was directed by Seijun Suzuki, known for his bold visual style and unconventional storytelling in Japanese cinema.

Who stars in *The Claws of the Divine Beast*?

The film features Naoko Ohtani, Hiroshi Sekiguchi, Hiroshi Kondō, Yuki Kimura, and Isamu Nagato in key roles.

Is *The Claws of the Divine Beast* (1980) worth watching?

While unrated on IMDb, this mystery-thriller offers a tight, atmospheric story with Suzuki's distinct flair. Fans of historical intrigue and classic Japanese films will find it compelling, though its brevity may leave some wanting more.

How long is *The Claws of the Divine Beast*?

The runtime is 45 minutes.

About The Claws of the Divine Beast (1980) — A Japanese Mystery Unraveling Dark History

Dive into the shadowy depths of 1980 with *The Claws of the Divine Beast*, a gripping mystery TV movie directed by the legendary Seijun Suzuki. Set against the gritty backdrop of Yokohama, the story unfolds when a violent disagreement over a priceless Tang dynasty artifact escalates into murder, leaving a victim marred by unexplained claw marks. As a determined detective peels back the layers of deceit, the investigation uncovers a chilling connection to Japan's wartime atrocities in China, blurring the lines between past and present. With its moody atmosphere and suspenseful narrative, this short but intense film weaves a tale of vengeance, secrets, and the lingering scars of history.

Starring Naoko Ohtani, Hiroshi Sekiguchi, and Hiroshi Kondō, *The Claws of the Divine Beast (1980)* blends mystery and historical intrigue into a tight 45-minute runtime. Suzuki's signature style infuses the film with a noirish tension, while the themes of guilt and retribution linger long after the credits roll. Whether you're a fan of classic Japanese cinema or a mystery enthusiast, this underrated gem offers a haunting exploration of justice delayed.