Nao Omori in Omega Project's 'Ichi the Killer' Photo

Ichi the Killer

Directed by: Takeshi Miike

RS: 3of 4 Stars

2001 Action

Takashi Miike's Ichi the Killer separates the men from the boys. This tale of yakuza being hunted by a truly deranged "superhero" is easily the most violent film ever made, but like Eminem's rhymes, once you get past the context of nastiness you'll be rewarded, here with hyperkinetic camerawork and editing as well as a deep plot shaded with viciously dark humor. There are two editions being released, R-rated and unrated. Unrated is the way to go -- that is, if you think you can handle it.

PETER KENIS
(November 19, 2003)