TR1: Off to a good start!
I've been meaning to check out this 10 movie series for quite a while now. It starts Bunta Sugawara of Battles Without Honor and Humanity fame, but in a comedic role this time. I think the worldbuilding is where this film succeeds the most, as we're introduced to a large cast of characters and primarily focus in on a circle of truck drivers and their acquaintances.I'll be honest, the movie felt like it should have been done after the first hour, as the ending felt a bit tacked on. What I learned afterwards, however (after doing some digging online), there is a reason for it. This was meant to follow the same formula as the Tora-san films, and in that way I kind of better understand what they were going for. That said, it did feel a bit unnecessary, and it's obvious they were hoping to do a bunch of sequels.
Most of the antics are amusing, and aside from a small sidequest that seemingly comes out of nowhere (and offers absolutely nothing to the plot, in my opinion), the movie does a good job of being entertaining. I also admit, I find it hilarious that the last few minutes go out of their way to prove our protagonist is a good and decent guy, all the while as we watch him mow down police cars without a second thought to their well being. I have no idea if this was intentional, or just completely overlooked by the writer(s?)., but it got a good laugh out of me.
Curious to see how the sequels go.
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