Black Lizard
Black Lizard

Black Lizard

2019Movie119 minJapanese

Set in the future where it is commonplace for high tech crimes to get through cyber defense, Iwase Shobei, a wealthy man and well-known collector of gems, asks private investigator Akechi Kogoro to provide personal protection for his daughter Sanae. Iwase has been warned that she will be kidnapped. The mysterious phantom thief Kurotokage, who deftly replaces precious gems with imitations, stands in Akechi's way. However, Kogoro catches on that Madam Midorikawa, the owner of an exclusive hotel who has give shelter to Sanae, is actually Kurotokage, and prevents Sanae's abduction. However, he is hampered by a trick laid in the entire hotel and fails to catch her. At that moment, the thief and famous investigator secretly fall in love. Akechi chases Kurotokage and eventually learns about her tragic past and surprising identity. Although swayed by forbidden love, both have a final showdown at Kurotokage's secret museum which houses her collection. Who will be the victor?—Jdrama Weblog

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Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Director: Toshiki OkadaGenres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

Plot Summary

A mysterious, enigmatic woman known as the Black Lizard operates in the shadows, orchestrating elaborate heists with unparalleled skill. Her target is the valuable Star of Rhodesia diamond, but she finds herself entangled with a determined detective who becomes increasingly fascinated by her intelligence and daring. As their cat-and-mouse game intensifies, the lines between hunter and hunted blur, leading to a complex dance of deception and attraction.

Critical Reception

Black Lizard garnered mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising its stylish direction and unique atmosphere. The performances, particularly that of the lead actress, were often highlighted as a strong point. However, some found the plot to be convoluted and the pacing uneven, leading to a less satisfying overall experience for certain segments of the audience.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its distinctive visual style and atmospheric tension.
  • The lead performance was frequently cited as a standout element.
  • Some reviews noted that the narrative could be difficult to follow at times.

Google audience: Audience reception for Black Lizard appears to be limited or unavailable across major platforms. General online discussions suggest a polarized view, with some viewers appreciating its avant-garde elements and others finding it too abstract.

Fun Fact

The film is a modern adaptation of Edogawa Ranpo's classic novel of the same name, originally published in 1934, which has been adapted into several films previously.

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