Yasuzo Masumura Films on Blu-ray

Yasuzo Masumura was one of Japan's most provocative post-war directors, known for intense, often disturbing explorations of obsession, sexuality and social convention. Ayako Wakao, his most frequent collaborator, stars in two of the five films in this collection.

If you enjoy this strand of classic Japanese cinema, our Gothic Horror collection features some of his contemporaries' work from the same era.

Browse our full collection of Yasuzo Masumura films below.

Essential Yasuzo Masumura Releases

The five Masumura titles in this collection:

  • Blind Beast: Masumura's disturbing, claustrophobic tale of obsession, starring Shintaro Katsu.
  • Irezumi: A striking period drama about a woman transformed by a vengeful tattoo.
  • Red Angel: A harrowing wartime drama following a battlefield nurse.
  • Giants and Toys: A sharp, satirical take on Japan's post-war consumer culture.

Play It Cool, a Limited Edition slipcase release, is also part of this collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yasuzo Masumura known for?

Masumura is known for intense, boundary-pushing films exploring obsession, sexuality and the tension between individual desire and social convention, often more provocative than his contemporaries at the time.

Which actress appears most in this collection?

Ayako Wakao, one of his most frequent collaborators, stars in two of the five films here.

Where should I start with Masumura?

Blind Beast is his most famous and most extreme work; Irezumi offers a slightly more accessible entry point into his visual style and thematic concerns.

Are these region-free with English subtitles?

Yes, these are region-free Blu-rays from specialist Japanese cinema labels, with English subtitles included.

Do you have similar classic Japanese cinema?

Yes - see our Gothic Horror collection for more from this era.