The Phoenix (1978): cast, story & where to watch
1978 · Film · ★ 5.7
Released in 1978, The Phoenix is an action, adventure and animation film directed by Kon Ichikawa, running about 137 minutes.
What it’s about. This extraordinarily complex film is not only a send-up of every samurai film ever made, it is also an extrapolation of the value of life. The Yamatai, represented by Prince Susano-O and elderly advisor Sumuke, hire Yumihiko of Matsuro to hunt the phoenix so that Queen Himiko, sister of Susano-O can have eteranal life.
Who’s in it. The Phoenix stars Jun Fubuki as Oro, Tomisaburô Wakayama as Sarutahaiko, General of the Yamatai, Toshinori Omi as Nagi and Masao Kusakari as Yumihiko of Matsuro, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.7/10, The Phoenix has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Phoenix page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Phoenix 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.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Phoenix (1978)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Phoenix change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Phoenix worth watching?
- The Phoenix holds an audience score of 5.7 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy action, adventure and animation. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Phoenix?
- The Phoenix stars Jun Fubuki, Tomisaburô Wakayama, Toshinori Omi, Masao Kusakari and Kaoru Yumi.
- When was The Phoenix released?
- The Phoenix was released in 1978, with a runtime of about 137 minutes.