Verdict:Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 5.5/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Horror, Thriller, TV Movie genre.
Answer: Maybe not, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 92 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Released in 1983, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live enters the Horror genre with a narrative focused on Yoshinari Bessho, the feudal lord of Tanba Province, is a collector of butterflies and has his concubines tattooed with butterflies as well. Under the direction of Keiichirō Yoshida, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Akiko Kana. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live resonates with current cultural themes in the Horror space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live centers on a unique premise within the Horror landscape. Yoshinari Bessho, the feudal lord of Tanba Province, is a collector of butterflies and has his concubines tattooed with butterflies as well. One day while hunting, Yoshinari sees Gennosuke Akizuki's beautiful wife, Okoto. He kidnaps her, tattoos a butterfly on her shoulder and takes her for his own. Feeling shame for what has happened, Okoto throws herself into a well and commits suicide. She then returns as a ruthless ghost that seeks revenge against Yoshinari and his retainers. Whenever the ghost appears, mysterious butterflies always fly around her... The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1983 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live (1983): with an audience rating of 5.5/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Horror, Thriller, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1983 cinematic year.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Thriller, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror, Thriller, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is a Horror, Thriller, TV Movie movie that follows: Yoshinari Bessho, the feudal lord of Tanba Province, is a collector of butterflies and has his concubines tattooed with butterflies as well. One day while hunting, Yoshinari sees Gennosuke Akizuki's b...
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live falls under Horror, Thriller, TV Movie, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
Ghost Story: The House Where Butterflies Live is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Yoshinari Bessho, the feudal lord of Tanba Province, is a collector of butterflies and has his concubines tattooed with butterflies as well. One day while hunting, Yoshinari sees Gennosuke Akizuki's beautiful wife, Okoto. He kidnaps her, tattoos a butterfly on her shoulder and takes her for his own. Feeling shame for what has happened, Okoto throws herself into a well and commits suicide. She then returns as a ruthless ghost that seeks revenge against Yoshinari and his retainers. Whenever the ghost appears, mysterious butterflies always fly around her...
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