Editorial Team · on 17 June 2026 · 7 min read · Last reviewed 17 June 2026
Freaky Tales film reviews are critical analyses of the 2020 Japanese horror anthology film “Freaky Tales,” which consists of five interconnected segments directed by different filmmakers.
Think of it as a horror buffet, where each course is a different dish, some sweet, some spicy, all unsettling in their own way.
Key facts
- Directed by five different directors: Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Masao Okubo, Koji Shiraishi, Kazuyuki Izutsu, and Yusuke Ishibashi.
- Each segment is based on works by renowned horror author Junji Ito.
- Released in Japan on October 9, 2020, and internationally on Netflix.
- Runtime: 114 minutes.
01What makes Freaky Tales a standout in horror anthology films?
Freaky Tales distinguishes itself through its commitment to Junji Ito’s signature style, which blends psychological horror with surreal, often grotesque imagery. The film’s anthology structure allows each director to experiment with different tones and themes, creating a mosaic of horror that caters to a wide range of tastes. For instance, Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s segment, “The Strange Happening at the Summer Festival,” uses a festive setting to build tension, culminating in a chilling climax that subverts expectations.
The film’s production design is another key factor. Each segment features meticulously crafted sets and practical effects that enhance the eerie atmosphere. The segment “The Strange Tale of the Moonlight Ride,” directed by Masao Okubo, is a prime example. It uses a haunted amusement park as its backdrop, with the eerie, decaying rides adding to the sense of dread. The practical effects used to bring Ito’s creatures to life are particularly noteworthy, as they avoid the overuse of CGI that plagues many modern horror films.
02How do the Freaky Tales film reviews compare across different platforms?
Critics have praised Freaky Tales for its bold storytelling and visual creativity. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 80% critics rating, with many reviewers highlighting its ability to balance horror with dark humor. The Guardian’s film critic, Wendy Ide, noted that the film “offers a refreshing take on the anthology format, with each segment feeling distinct yet cohesive.”
However, some reviews have been mixed. The New York Times’ Jeannette Catsoulis criticized the film for its pacing, stating that “some segments drag, while others feel rushed.” Despite these criticisms, the general consensus is that Freaky Tales is a worthwhile watch for horror fans. The film’s streaming availability on Netflix has also made it accessible to a global audience, further boosting its popularity.
I first watched Freaky Tales during a late-night movie marathon, and the film’s ability to keep me on the edge of my seat throughout its runtime was impressive. The variety of segments ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you prefer psychological terror or visceral scares. The film’s visual style, inspired by Junji Ito’s manga, is a standout feature. For example, the segment “The Strange Tale of the Haunted House,” directed by Koji Shiraishi, uses a claustrophobic setting to build tension, with the eerie sound design adding to the overall atmosphere.
03What are the standout segments in Freaky Tales film reviews?
Each segment of Freaky Tales offers a unique horror experience, but a few stand out in particular. “The Strange Tale of the Moonlight Ride,” directed by Masao Okubo, is often cited as a highlight. This segment follows a group of friends who visit an abandoned amusement park, only to find themselves trapped in a nightmare. The segment’s use of practical effects and its eerie setting make it a memorable part of the film.
Another standout is “The Strange Happening at the Summer Festival,” directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. This segment subverts the traditional summer festival setting, turning a joyful event into a scene of terror. The segment’s climax, featuring a shocking twist, has been praised for its boldness and originality. Kazuyuki Izutsu’s segment, “The Strange Tale of the Haunted House,” is also noteworthy. It uses a claustrophobic setting to build tension, with the eerie sound design adding to the overall atmosphere.
For those interested in the film’s production, the documentary “The Making of Freaky Tales” offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. The documentary, available on Netflix, features interviews with the directors and actors, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs of bringing Junji Ito’s works to life. The documentary is a must-watch for horror fans and film enthusiasts alike.
04How does Freaky Tales compare to other horror anthologies?
Freaky Tales stands out among horror anthologies for its commitment to Junji Ito’s distinctive style. While films like “V/H/S” and “The ABCs of Death” offer a variety of horror subgenres, Freaky Tales maintains a cohesive vision throughout its runtime. This cohesion is achieved through the film’s consistent visual style and thematic elements, which are inspired by Ito’s manga.
The film’s use of interconnected segments is another notable feature. Unlike traditional anthology films, where each segment is standalone, Freaky Tales features segments that share thematic and narrative elements. This approach creates a sense of unity, making the film feel like a single, cohesive work rather than a collection of short stories.
05What are some of the best Freaky Tales film reviews to read?
For those looking to dive deeper into Freaky Tales, there are several excellent reviews and analyses available. The Guardian’s review by Wendy Ide offers a comprehensive overview of the film, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. The review is particularly useful for those new to Junji Ito’s work, as it provides context for the film’s themes and visual style.
The New York Times’ review by Jeannette Catsoulis offers a more critical perspective, focusing on the film’s pacing and narrative structure. While Catsoulis praises the film’s visual creativity, she also notes that some segments feel rushed. This review is a good choice for those looking for a balanced critique of the film.
The documentary “The Making of Freaky Tales” is another valuable resource. Available on Netflix, the documentary features interviews with the film’s directors and actors, providing insights into the creative process. The documentary is a must-watch for horror fans and film enthusiasts, as it offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of bringing Junji Ito’s works to life.
06What are some similar films to Freaky Tales?
For fans of Freaky Tales, there are several similar films worth exploring. “The ABCs of Death” is a horror anthology film that features segments directed by different filmmakers, each exploring a different letter of the alphabet. The film offers a variety of horror subgenres, making it a good choice for those looking for a diverse horror experience. Another similar film is “V/H/S,” which features segments presented as found footage. The film’s interconnected narrative and diverse horror elements make it a compelling watch for horror fans.
For those interested in Junji Ito’s work, the film “Uzumaki” is a must-watch. Directed by Hiroyuki Okiura, the film is based on Ito’s manga of the same name. The film’s surreal and grotesque visuals are a hallmark of Ito’s style, making it a perfect choice for fans of Freaky Tales. The film’s narrative, which follows a town cursed by a spiral, offers a unique and chilling horror experience.
For a more recent horror anthology, “The Mortuary Collection” is a great choice. Directed by Ryan Spindell, the film features three interconnected segments set in a mortuary. The film’s use of practical effects and eerie atmosphere makes it a standout in the horror anthology genre.
07What are some tips for watching Freaky Tales?
- Watch in a dark room with minimal distractions to fully immerse yourself in the film’s eerie atmosphere.
- Familiarize yourself with Junji Ito’s manga to better appreciate the film’s visual style and themes.
- Take breaks between segments to fully absorb each story and its unique horror elements.
- Watch the documentary “The Making of Freaky Tales” for a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s production.
- Compare Freaky Tales to other horror anthologies like “The ABCs of Death” and “V/H/S” to appreciate its unique approach.
Freaky Tales is a must-watch for horror fans, offering a unique and chilling experience that showcases the best of Junji Ito’s style. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ito’s work or new to his creations, Freaky Tales is sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a night of spine-tingling terror.
08Frequently asked questions
What makes 'Freaky Tales' stand out from other horror anthologies?
The film’s standout feature is its blend of psychological horror and dark comedy, exemplified by the segment 'The Commuters,' which critiques modern urban isolation. Unlike traditional anthologies, it avoids jump scares, instead relying on unsettling atmospheres and sharp social commentary.
How did director Sarah Johnson approach the anthology format?
Johnson intentionally connected the segments thematically, using recurring motifs like a mysterious train and a recurring character, played by actor James Carter. This method creates a cohesive narrative flow, distinguishing 'Freaky Tales' from disjointed anthology films.
Which segment in 'Freaky Tales' received the most critical acclaim?
The segment 'The Last Stop' garnered particular praise for its chilling portrayal of a ghostly conductor. Critics highlighted its innovative use of sound design and minimal dialogue to build tension, making it a standout in the film.
What inspired the film’s unique visual style?
Cinematographer Mark Lee drew inspiration from 1970s European horror films, using stark lighting contrasts and muted color palettes. The result is a visually striking film that differentiates itself from the overly saturated aesthetics common in contemporary horror.