A Different Kind of Magic
As a fan of the Onmyoji anime on Netflix, I went into Onmyoji 0 expecting intense supernatural battles, demon-slaying action, and the legendary duo of Abe no Seimei and Minamoto no Hiromasa saving the world. What I got, however, was a very different film—one that focused more on political intrigue and spiritual training than on epic showdowns.This prequel delves into Seimei’s early days, examining the inner workings of the Onmyoji order—its rigid hierarchy, training system, and the power struggles that unfold within. The film replaces demons with human conflict, and grand magic with subtle manipulation, including the use of hypnosis. While the magical elements were minimal, the world-building was rich, and the CGI effects were visually striking.
If you’re expecting high-octane fantasy action, this may not satisfy. But if you’re open to a slower, more character-driven story about the origins of a legendary Onmyoji, Onmyoji 0 might still be worth your time—temper your expectations.
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