Review of Ichi the Killer (2001) by Mark W — 05 Jul 2016

I've watched Ichi the Killer twice. The first time I found the gore and violence off-putting, and didn't like the movie. Seeing it again 10 years later, after having lived in Japan, the movie made a lot more sense to me.

The themes of bullying (to the point of institutionalized structure) and isolation are serious issues in Japanese society. The movie is over-the-top and painful to watch at moments, but it is also memorable and keeps you in an excited state throughout.

Tadanobu Asano delivers a virtuoso performance as an eccentric and masochistic gangster. The CGI isn't always convincing, but luckily its used sparingly. Miike delivers a visionary, disturbing, delightfully kooky at times, and one-of-a-kind movie-watching experience.