Ballad (2009)

Takashi Yamazaki's 2009 historical fantasy epic, *Ballad*, brings to live-action an award-winning Crayon Shin-chan animated movie from 2002, re-imagining its story with a heartfelt human drama at its core. The film sees a young boy, Shinichi (played by Takei), unexpectedly time-traveling to Japan's turbulent Sengoku period. There, he encounters the formidable general Ijiri Matabei (Kusanagi), a man deeply devoted to Princess Ren (Aragaki). Their forbidden romance faces an insurmountable challenge when Princess Ren rejects an arranged marriage to the powerful northern Kanto daimyo, Okura Itakatora (Osawa), igniting a vengeful war. Amidst the escalating conflict and grand battles, it falls upon Shinichi to navigate the era's treacherous politics and rewrite the destinies of those he has come to care for. While an adaptation of an unlikely source, *Ballad* is quintessential Takashi Yamazaki, showcasing his penchant for grand historical settings intertwined with fantastical elements. The film benefits from his signature visual flair, meticulously crafted CGI, and ability to blend heartwarming personal drama with large-scale action sequences, creating a captivating spectacle. It explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the impact of a single individual on the course of history, all delivered with the emotional resonance he's known for. For fans of Yamazaki's work who appreciate his unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and spectacle, *Ballad* stands out as a charming and ambitious entry, demonstrating his versatility and consistent ability to craft engaging, visually impressive, and emotionally resonant cinematic experiences, making it a strong contender for any "best of" list celebrating his diverse filmography.