Cast Member: Tetsu Watanabe

Most of the film’s jokes are lame and the plot would be familiar to those who have seen more than a couple of 80s’ Hong Kong movies.

Not as enjoyable or as accomplished as some of the director’s other efforts but worthy of a look if you’re a fan of Sono’s work and “non-conventional” cinema.

Bizarre for the sake of it just doesn’t work and without anything solid to juxtapose it with, ’Instant Swamp’s initial laughs soon wear thin.

‘Lala Pipo’ is nevertheless a brave film on certain levels, often funny and will push some viewers out of their comfort zone even when they find themselves laughing out loud.

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

What makes it work so well, at least for me, is the ease with which it taps into the child in all of us and creates a rip-roaring adventure that is fun for all the family.