Poetry on film.

What starts as any yakuza film you may have seen before quickly evolves into something more beautiful, more heartfelt, more enigmatic. And while my appreciation for Takeshi Kitano started from my experience with him as the real-world Terminator, terrorizing Japanese cinema with his brooding menace, my appreciation now is deeper. His ability to capture a mood through visuals alone, his gentleness with the camera, his wordless storytelling really came through.

I do wish that the film were a little less achronological. The jumbled framework forced me to watch this film 1.5 times, as I was confused during my first, late-night attempt to watch it. But fortunately, the extra effort paid off, and I experienced a true piece of cinematic art.

I want to rewatch this movie someday soon. I think my understanding and appreciation for what Kitano made here will only deepen with subsequent viewings. But as it is, the film is a beautiful albeit challenging viewing. I don't think I'm entirely clear of what took place, or what each scene actually entailed. But I did reflect a lot on what to value in life, and what you would do for those you love. Powerful stuff.