The Magic Ballad poster

The Magic Ballad

5.2(4)198226m1

The 25 minute film tells the tale of an ailing elderly woman named Itako who encounters a fox named Okon. The story opens with Itako lying bedridden, as she has for a long time. Okon enters her home and Itako tells the fox that he is welcome to take anything that he wants, for she has no use for anything anymore. Okon is delighted and in order to return the favour (the act of ongaeshi), Okon performs a magic jyōruri (a ballad with shamisen accompaniment) that heals Itako so that she is fit enough to walk again. Everyone is surprised by Itako's sudden recovery. She then hears of a hunter who has been badly injured and is near death. Itako hides Okon in the back of her shirt and has the fox sing the song while she plays shamisen in order to heal the man. This act of kindness is repeated for others until Itako's good fortune leads some to be suspicious of her.

  • TMDB

    5.2/10

    4 votes

Status
Released
Budget
Box office
Language
Japanese
  • stop motion
  • folktale
  • short film

Top billed cast

Release dates

  • JapanJP

    • Theatrical1 Jan 1982

Frequently asked questions

When was The Magic Ballad released?
The Magic Ballad was released on 1 January 1982.
Where can I watch The Magic Ballad online?
No verified streaming availability is listed for The Magic Ballad right now. Check back soon.
Is there a Hindi trailer for The Magic Ballad?
No verified Hindi trailer for The Magic Ballad is available yet. Only the original-language trailer is listed.
What is the rating of The Magic Ballad?
The Magic Ballad holds a 5.2/10 audience score from 4 votes.
Who directed The Magic Ballad?
The Magic Ballad (1982) was directed by Tadanari Okamoto.
How long is The Magic Ballad?
The Magic Ballad runs for 26m.

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