The work of Takeshi Kitano sparked my interest in modern Japanese cinema as it is not your average run of the mill Gangster Film. It is a cinematic masterpiece, misunderstood. The story is basic yet told in a realistic way that doesn’t chase you from one scene to the next. It is a film maybe not for everybody as viewers need to observe it rather than watching it appreciate Beat Kitano’s directing style.

The cinematography is beautiful, making full use of the lovely beaches of Okinawa. Kitano puts a lot of color into this film, looking very gritty and dull when they’re in Tokyo, but it becomes much more abundant in color as they go to Okinawa. Get to know the cinematographic genius behind Kitano, Mr. Katsumi Yanagijima. He has journeyed on the path with Takeski Kitano from the beginning. We get stunning visuals and character studies more so than anything of the protagonist with a false sense of security. Legendary composer, Joe Hisaishi's music, was sad and beautiful. It was very hypnotic through the colorful camera shots. If you are someone who is not afraid to sit through a film and observe it with a keen eye see this underrated gem.


I have rewatched this film five times and I always seem to pick up something new. Even though my
Rewatch Value is a 7 I, have seen this many times.


Final Rating: 8.739/10.
It is about 4 points higher than the comments section.