Kai Doh Maru (2001): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2001, Kai Doh Maru is an action, fantasy and animation film directed by Kanji Wakabayashi, running about 45 minutes.

What it’s about. Set in the Shoryaku and Chotoku eras of Japan's Heian period, the animated short Kai Doh Maru is set against a background of a capital under threat from disease, outlaws, and political plots. The story reworks themes from Japanese folklore, focusing on the relationship between Sakata no Kintoki (Kintarō) and Minamoto no Raikō, one of the first military Minamoto and "monster hunter" of folklore. The story replaces the traditional image of Kintaro - a strong, ruddy-cheeked man - with that of a determined, tomboyish girl, while retaining much of the traditional character such as the carrying of an axe. Other historical figures from the period who have also become objects of folklore, such as Fujiwara no Michinaga and the rebel Taira no Masakado also make an appearance.

Who’s in it. Kai Doh Maru stars Mitsuki Saiga as Kintoki Sakatano (voice), Showtaro Morikubo as Raikou Minamotono (voice), Fumiko Osaka as Fuji (voice) and Yurika Hino as Princess Ouni (voice), among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 4.8/10, Kai Doh Maru has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Kai Doh Maru page.

If you liked it. Fans of Kai Doh Maru tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.