Is Benkei Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Benkei is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 146 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences. Bottom Line: Highly recommended!
Benkei Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1997, Benkei enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on At the end of the Heian period, Musashibo Benkei, a warrior monk who hated the Heike clan, was humiliated by his fellow monks and left the mountain monastery. Under the direction of Akira Inoue, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Ken Matsudaira, Kōtarō Satomi, Makoto Fujita. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Benkei offers a visually stunning presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, though the pacing during its 146-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Benkei is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 10/10, the reception has been acclaimed. For fans of Drama, History, TV Movie, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of Benkei
- Ken Matsudaira –
- Kōtarō Satomi –
- Makoto Fujita –
- Nishimura Kazuhiko –
- Narimi Arimori –
Top Highlights
Ken Matsudaira
Kōtarō Satomi
Makoto Fujita
Nishimura Kazuhiko
Narimi Arimori
Akiko Hinagata
Yoko Minamino
Sayuri Kokusho
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 10/10, and global collection metrics, Benkei stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1997 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benkei movie hit or flop?
Benkei is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 10/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, History, TV Movie movies.
Is Benkei worth watching?
Yes, Benkei is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, History, TV Movie cinema.
What genre is Benkei?
Benkei is a Drama, History, TV Movie movie that At the end of the Heian period, Musashibo Benkei, a warrior monk who hated the Heike clan, was humiliated by his fellow monks and left the mountain mo...
