
When a lone traveller stumbles upon a remote, drought-stricken village, he finds himself engulfed in a whirlpool of myth, mystery, and magic: in a nearby pond reside spirits who hold the fate of the town’s inhabitants, including lovers Akira and Yuri, in their hands.
Directed by Masahiro Shinoda, Demon Pond leans on a strong ensemble — Tamasaburō Bandō V, Gō Katō, Tsutomu Yamazaki — 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 fantasy titles of 1979.
Read More on the Blog
Loading reviews…

Set in the storybook world of Enchancia, the music-filled movie follows Sofia, an average girl whose life suddenly changes when her mother marries the king and she is whisked off to live in a castle with her mom, new step-father, King Roland II, and step-siblings, Amber and James. Along the way this ordinary girl learns to navigate the extraordinary life of royalty, and in the process makes everyone around her feel special.
Get weekly picks and blog posts in your inbox.
Criterion ChannelIncluded with subscription — watch instantly Watch Now
Fandango At HomeRent or buy — no subscription needed Rent or Buy