Movie spotlight
Marukin marubi no kintamashii maki
Koji Tadokoro, the manager of a hot bento shop, lives an ordinary life with his girlfriend Noriko Kinoshita, who works at a nearby supermarket and loves sex. Tonight they are having sex, as if they are going to try to break the Guinness World Record, when suddenly the window opens and Nakagawa, a middle school classmate, appears. Shimizu, who had become a film director, has died. The two go to the funeral, and on the way home they pass a man accompanied by a beautiful woman. That man is none other than his childhood friend, Kimio Kondo. Kimio is the epitome of a money man. He is a doctor working at a university hospital, and on the side, he writes new music lyrics and is popular with nurses and popular singers. The three are excited to see each other again after a long time, and plan a class reunion trip to Kimio's luxurious mansion...
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Plot Summary
A violent yakuza enforcer, disillusioned with his life of crime, attempts to escape his past. However, his former associates and the consequences of his actions relentlessly pursue him. He finds himself drawn into a spiraling vortex of betrayal, retribution, and extreme violence as he fights for survival.
Critical Reception
As an early work by Takashi Miike, 'Marukin marubi no kintamashii maki' is characteristic of his visceral and boundary-pushing style. While not widely distributed internationally upon its initial release, it has gained a cult following among fans of extreme cinema for its raw energy and shocking content. Critics often note its brutal depiction of violence and its bleak narrative.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its unflinching portrayal of yakuza violence.
Criticized for its extreme gore and disturbing themes.
Considered a significant early example of Takashi Miike's distinctive style.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to limited availability, but discussions often highlight its extreme nature and Miike's early, raw filmmaking.
Fun Fact
This film is an early example of Takashi Miike's prolific and often controversial career, showcasing themes and violence that would become hallmarks of his later, internationally recognized works.
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