Gunro no keifu

At least in Australia "Gunro no keifu" is known as "Tale of a Scarface." It follows the life of Kumoro, a yakuza member, who recently is released from prison after serving 14 years for his Family. Upon his return he finds the various yakuza syndicates on the brink of war. Kumoro is, at first, removed from the dealings of the families by his Boss, but slowly he is drawn back into his old ways.

Tale of Scarface has it all. Violence, sex, drama, humour, tragedy, treachery, betrayal and love.

This movie does not change its pace. It is a constant throughout. There are many scenes where the characters do not speak, their expressions alone are used as "conversation." Some scenes that Hollywood would normally labour upon (including some very brutal violence) are played out and then moved over without any of the drawn out overacting we have come to expect.

The cinematography is fantastic with a almost tranquil soundtrack. The actors in this movie give stellar performances with many varied and interesting characteristics.

10 out of 10.