7/10
Kurosawa's dark vision
4 February 2002
One of the contemporary masters of Japanese film, Kiyoshi Kurosawa here fashions a dark tale that is both a sharp satire of corporate life and a B-movie thriller. A former sumo wrestler (and here, the Western viewer is surprised to discover that not all sumo wrestlers are huge ponderous guys) now working as a security guard goes on a murderous rampage in the company that's employed him.

How did he snag the job with a prior charge of murder? How is it that the only way a surviving employee can get help is by telexing New York City?

As well, the juxtaposition of world-renowned art in commerce (i.e., how much can I buy and sell this Cezanne for?) with the obviously crude and horrible activity the guard engages in that dominates the story, give this film a unique feel.

Though not as well crafted as the astoundingly brilliant "Kyua (Cure)", this is nevertheless an interesting film.
11 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed