The first time I heard of this movie was when I went to pick up the Zatoichi DVD. It came coupled with the blind swordsman movie and I really didn't know anything about it. A critic's statement, on the box, says "...very reminiscent of Goodfellas." So I thought it might be pretty good.
Upon watching this film, I was very angry by the critic's words. Did he even watch the same movie? This film is not some Japanese Scorsese imitation. On the contrary, this film soars where Scorsese films try and fail. Sonatine does have some violent moments, but they are few and far between. This is more of a story of friendship and love that can be found in the most unlikely of places. It is a visual masterpiece that focuses more on plot development through style and storytelling and less on action and adventure.
This is a typical Takeshi Kitano film, which is to say it is slow paced and possesses a very artistic quality that touches you deep within. Films like this simply aren't done in America. Kitano is a master of using imagery and general feel to get his point across. This is a beautifully shot film and many images (like the beach scenes) will stick with you after seeing it.
As I said before, this is not a big action movie. Many that give it a shot might be disappointed as they have acquired a taste for big explosions and big shootouts, typical of American and Hong Kong action flicks. If that's what you're after, this is not your movie. If you are after a film that wears the coat of a Yakuza movie, but instead focuses on the humanity of its characters and gives you a very unique visual style, you are in for a treat.
This movie almost seemed to be a cross between Kikujiro no natsu (Kikujiro in the US) and Hana Bi (Fireworks in the US), both Kitano films. If you enjoyed either of those movies, then sit back and prepare yourself for another masterpiece. I couldn't recommend this movie more.
Upon watching this film, I was very angry by the critic's words. Did he even watch the same movie? This film is not some Japanese Scorsese imitation. On the contrary, this film soars where Scorsese films try and fail. Sonatine does have some violent moments, but they are few and far between. This is more of a story of friendship and love that can be found in the most unlikely of places. It is a visual masterpiece that focuses more on plot development through style and storytelling and less on action and adventure.
This is a typical Takeshi Kitano film, which is to say it is slow paced and possesses a very artistic quality that touches you deep within. Films like this simply aren't done in America. Kitano is a master of using imagery and general feel to get his point across. This is a beautifully shot film and many images (like the beach scenes) will stick with you after seeing it.
As I said before, this is not a big action movie. Many that give it a shot might be disappointed as they have acquired a taste for big explosions and big shootouts, typical of American and Hong Kong action flicks. If that's what you're after, this is not your movie. If you are after a film that wears the coat of a Yakuza movie, but instead focuses on the humanity of its characters and gives you a very unique visual style, you are in for a treat.
This movie almost seemed to be a cross between Kikujiro no natsu (Kikujiro in the US) and Hana Bi (Fireworks in the US), both Kitano films. If you enjoyed either of those movies, then sit back and prepare yourself for another masterpiece. I couldn't recommend this movie more.