Review of Ichi the Killer (2001) by Jon C — 29 Jan 2009

I remember the first time I saw this film. It opened me up to the wonders of Japanese cinema and especially director Takashi Miike. One of the quintessential "Asian shock" films. Miike's "Ichi the Killer" is definitely one of the most infamous movies out there.

The story follows the sadomasochistic Kakihara as he looks into the murder of his boss Anjo. The plot soon thickens when we are introduced to Jijii and the insane Ichi. Ichi, who becomes extremely violent when angered, has been crafted by Jijii to associate sexual pleasure with killing.

I won't reveal anymore because that would be doing you a great disservice. Want to freak out your family? Sit down and watch Ichi with them.