
In 1864, King Ludwig II is crowned the fourth King of Bavaria at the young age of 18, following the sudden death of his father, King Maximilian II. However, the government bureaucrats do not understand his actions as a patron of the arts, valuing beauty and art over politics, and he gradually becomes isolated within the royal court. Ludwig, who is wounded, is visited by a beautiful vision (a giant bird), which is neither dream nor reality.
Directed by —, Ludwig II leans on a strong ensemble — Mire Aika, Rei Otori — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2001.
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In late 19th-century Tokyo, Kikunosuke Onoue, the adopted son of a legendary actor, himself an actor specializing in female roles, discovers that the praise he receives is only due to his status as his father's heir. Devastated, he turns to Otoku, a servant of his family, for comfort, and they fall in love. Kikunosuke becomes determined to leave home and develop as an actor on his own merits, and Otoku faithfully joins him.
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