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Onmyoji

Name: Onmyoji
Director: Yojiro Takita
Released: 2001
Duration: 116 min

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2001

Director

Yojiro Takita

Runtime

116 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Onmyoji is a historical fantasy that prioritizes cultural authenticity over contemporary social issues. It explores folklore and social hierarchies specific to the Heian period. However, the narrative reinforces existing power structures and lacks representation of diverse identities, often using physical or mental differences as mere plot devices.

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Category Breakdown

Does Onmyoji have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on the social and spiritual structures of the Heian period and does not explore LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Onmyoji portray gender?

Fair

Women hold important positions in the court and practice magic, but their influence is limited by the societal hierarchy of the time.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Onmyoji?

Fair

The film stays true to its historical roots with a predominantly Japanese cast, avoiding whitewashing.

How does Onmyoji represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story emphasizes Shinto and Taoist beliefs and portrays the preservation of tradition and the imperial institution as key goals.

Does Onmyoji include disability representation?

Limited

Characters with physical or mental differences are often depicted as being possessed or corrupted, rather than having independent ability to act.

Present on Screen

High fidelity to the historical and cultural context of the Heian period.
Uses a predominantly Japanese cast to avoid whitewashing.
Focuses on period-specific traditions and esoteric practices.

Limited or Absent

Does not explore LGBTQ+ identities or sexual orientations.
Women's roles are limited by the era's social hierarchy.
Disability is often linked to supernatural corruption rather than independent ability to act.

Official Synopsis

During a dark time in the Heian period, when evil forces threaten the kingdom, the emperor relies on the onmyōji to keep the supernatural forces in line. But as political events become highly charged, friction within the order leads to betrayal. Now, Seimei, a talented member of the clan, must face down his master, Dōson, in the hopes of restoring peace to the kingdom.

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