Takeshi Kitano writes, stars, and directs this unconventional yakuza film, absolutely different to any other gangster movie you can see.

As it is characteristic on Kitano’s style, calmness, quietness, and stillness are the main features of the picture. This contrasts with the usual fast-pace and action-pack nature of the genre. But, differently to what can be thought, this aspect does not hurt the movie at all. On the contrary, it could be said that the quietest moments are the highlight of the film. It is precisely this still quality that emphasizes the underlying tension in the plot and the subsequent action and drama that enfolds, while also making evident the true ruthless nature of the characters.

Concurrently, this type of film definitely helps Kitano’s performance. Acting as a veteran yakuza, tired with his way of life but at the same time conscious that it is precisely the only type of life that he knows, Kitano’s serene and still performance fits the picture perfectly.

This mood is accentuated by Joe Hisashi’s marvellous score, which completely fits the sort of melancholic tone that the movie possesses.

But all positives said, sadly there is also one low point which is the story itself. It is absolutely perceived that the yakuza battles and intricacies were left aside to focus only on a movie relying on mood and feeling. This aspect hurts the movie when basically, with the sole intention of advancing the plot, tries to deal with the yakuza controversy going around. Those are basically the moments that you may become a bit detached with the picture.

In conclusion, if it would have fully embraced its real plotless identity and left aside or to the bare minimum the story, this film would be practically flawless. Still, a great movie and a must-watch in Kitano’s filmography.