Shoutai
2024 / 120m - Japan
Crime, Thriller
3.5*/5.0*
Faceless poster

Plot: Kaburagi is found at a murder scene, weapon in hand. Four people are dead, so it isn't difficult for the court to convict him. Kaburagi never admitted to the murders and comes up with a plan to escape from prison. Once outside, he tries to clear his name and makes some friends in the process. None of them believe the person they met is a ruthless killer.

Watches

February 19, 2025

3.5*/5.0*

Fujii's latest is a police procedural with a few nice twists and an impeccable presentation. Fujii's magic is once again present, but the plot is a bit more generic compared to his past couple of films. That makes it slightly less interesting, but if you like his previous work then you won't be too disappointed.

The setup felt familiar and the the reveals were nothing too shocking. The performances are solid, the cinematography is slick, and though a bit long the film never lags. It's another solid entry in Fujii's quickly expanding (and widely available) oeuvre, but it lacks that little extra sparkle to make it truly stand out.