Cast Member: Takeshi Kitano

‘Battle Royale’ is a fast-paced, intense and emotionally charged film that goes where most filmmakers would never dare and produces a highly recommended movie for fans of all genres.

The core concept remains relatively fresh and the switch in style to more of a war-like epic works in the film’s favour.

Takeshi Kitano has played a gallery of rogues during his career, but his performance as Shunpei Kim, a brutal Korean immigrant in Yoichi Sai’s ‘Blood and Bones’ is his most powerful.

For newcomers, it may prove a little difficult to get into and occasionally confusing but those already enjoying Kitano’s films will easily find several merits here that are synonymous with his best work.

‘Brother’ is a very classy film with some powerful moments that are eloquently shot and acted through the eyes of Takeshi Kitano.

Those who give it a chance will be rewarded with a well made, at times thought provoking and overall entertaining version of a Japanese classic.

If you manage to remain interested while the film establishes a story and can tolerate the odd sense of the macabre, then ‘Gonin’ does provide a few flashes of excellence.

Unlike many Hollywood takes on a similar subject, ‘Kikujiro’ prides itself on its unpredictability and genuine heart.

Although it may not be for everyone, ‘Sonatine’ is a captivating watch that really shows a different side to the gangster lifestyle.

Kitano directs with his usual quirky measured style punctuating the narrative with his classic odd ball humour.