Kantô mushuku

_Kanto Wanderer_ is a very different film to more contemporary Yakuza movies, such as _Black Rain_. Rather than focusing on the action, _Kanto Wanderer_ examines in depth the motivation and ethics of Yakuza members, in particular those of the young gangster Katsuta. The Yakuza ethic is of prime importance to this young man - he is, in fact, derided by an older member as being too traditional. Whilst examining Katsuta's efforts to remain faithful to the old ways in a changing world, the viewer is treated to a very low-key look inside Yakuza business, including several scenes of card-sharping, Japanese style.

Visually, the film is quite beautiful, with meticulously balanced composition and very effective use of colour. The latter is particularly noticeable with reference to banners and signs (which appear in a great many scenes), and in the skilful use of contrast - bright colours which stand out against white flags in the background, for example. One scene in which two gangsters are killed in a gambling house perhaps uses of colour to the greatest effect and impact, as well as blending diegetic and non-diegetic visual elements seamlessly.