Mag Mag is a surprising Japanese horror-comedy gem. It knows when to go full disturbing, but also knows how to break the tension with a good laugh. Director Yuriyan Retriever and writer Eisuke Naitô have crafted a dark, odd world with a few surprising twists.
What is Mag Mag about?
After the Mag Mag spirit kills her beloved, Sanae (Sara Minami), dedicates herself to getting revenge. However, she soon realizes this ghost isn’t what she thought it was at all. As she uncovers the true story behind the vengeful ghost, the audience is treated to brief chapters that soon become a fun little mystery. As we gather more puzzle pieces, we realize Mag Mag isn’t going to be another standard issue film in any of its subgenres. It becomes very apparent that we know as little as the characters about what is going on. There is also a delightfully freeing sensation that comes with just having to sit back and watch a story march to the beat of its own drummer as it unfolds in its own unique way.
Most people will probably tire of the repetitive nature of the film. We watch Mags take down man after man in a series of vignettes. This is how Mag Mag drives home how vicious and haunting the spirit is. It is also just wicked fun to see dudes getting gotten by a supernatural entity that is over their shit. I was fine with the structure because I was having a good time. Everyone’s mileage may vary, though.
Laugh Out Loud Funny
Mag Mag is one of the funniest movies I have seen this year. Not only because the humor caught me by surprise, but because it commits to the bits and goes for it. Minami definitely gives an outstanding performance, but most actors get something memorable to do in this film. We love a script that understands everyone deserves a moment. Even if they are tasked with breaking the tension by reacting to something horrific. There are also so many moments that the film revisits to give us a fuller story, or another point of view, that have lived rent-free in my brain since I watched the screener.
I clearly had a good time with the film and think it is worth watching if you get the chance. It navigates the line between horror and comedy in a way that speaks directly to my twisted little brain. Be prepared to laugh at some unsettling things, and to giggle at bizarre moments that zig when you think the movie is going to zag.
