The HBO series, Tokyo Vice, provided a captivating and enlightening portrayal of Japan’s underground and the notorious yakuza gangs. However, it is not the first instance of the yakuza being the focal point of a film. The yakuza genre has a lengthy and prosperous history in Japanese cinema, dating back to the country’s golden age of film during the 1950s and 1960s. Under the studio system, the yakuza genre thrived, producing numerous films that depicted Japan’s harsh and violent world of organized crime, as well as the yakuza’s impact on Japanese culture and society.
Popular Themes in the Yakuza Genre of Japanese Cinema
While the Yakuza genre has been around for decades, it continues to evolve and adapt to modern times. Recent films like “The Outsider” (2018) and “First Love” (2019) and TV series like “Tokyo Vice” (2022) explore the Yakuza world from new perspectives and incorporate contemporary themes such as globalization and technology. These films show that the Yakuza genre is still relevant and has the potential to continue to captivate audiences for years to come.
Honor and Loyalty
One of the defining characteristics of the Yakuza genre is the emphasis on honor and loyalty. Yakuza members are expected to follow a strict code of conduct, which includes respecting their superiors and sacrificing themselves for the group’s good. These themes are explored in films such as “Battles Without Honor and Humanity” (1973) and “The Yakuza” (1974), both of which depict the complex relationships between Yakuza members and the consequences of breaking the code.
Violence and Brutality
Another hallmark of the Yakuza genre is its depiction of violence and brutality. From graphic fight scenes to scenes of torture and murder, these films do not shy away from showing the darker side of the Yakuza lifestyle. However, violence is not simply used for shock value but is often used to explore the psychological toll it takes on those involved. Films like “Branded to Kill” (1967) and “Graveyard of Honor” (1975) are notable for their intense and visceral depictions of violence.
Family and Brotherhood
Despite the criminal nature of the Yakuza, many films in this genre explore themes of family and brotherhood. Yakuza members often refer to each other as “brothers,” Their relationships are depicted as being just as strong as those of blood relatives. This theme is explored in films such as “Outrage” (2010) and “Beyond Outrage” (2012), which follow the power struggles and betrayals that occur within Yakuza families.
Best Movies and Tv Series in the Yakuza Genre
Over the last decade, some incredible Yakuza TV series and movies have been released, showcasing the best of Japanese cinema and television. Below are some of the best Yakuza TV series and movies similar to Tokyo Vice that you should add to your watchlist.
Giri/Haji (2019)
Giri/Haji is a critically acclaimed British-Japanese crime drama that follows a Tokyo detective who travels to London to search for his missing brother. The series features an intricate plot, stunning cinematography, and a fantastic cast that brings the characters to life. With its mix of English and Japanese dialogue, Giri/Haji is a unique and compelling series not to be missed.
Outrage (2010)
Directed by legendary filmmaker Takeshi Kitano, Outrage is a gritty crime drama that follows a turf war between two Yakuza clans. With its brutal violence and complex characters, Outrage is a must-see for any Yakuza genre fan.
Beyond Outrage (2012)
The sequel to Outrage, Beyond Outrage, follows the fallout from the first film’s events. As tensions between the rival clans continue to escalate, the lines between friend and foe become increasingly blurred. With its intense action scenes and intricate plot, Beyond Outrage is a worthy follow-up to its predecessor.
The Outsider (2020)
The Outsider is a Japanese drama series based on the popular manga series “Giri/Haji” by Koichiro Hoshino. The show follows the story of a former yakuza member who is released from prison and must navigate through the criminal underworld while trying to reconnect with his estranged daughter. The Outsider is a must-watch for Yakuza fans with its thrilling action scenes and compelling character development.
The Way of the Househusband (2021)
The Way of the Househusband is a comedy series based on the manga series by Kousuke Oono. The show follows the story of a former Yakuza member who becomes a househusband after leaving the criminal underworld. The series is a hilarious take on the Yakuza genre, featuring over-the-top action scenes and hilarious jokes. The Way of the Househusband is perfect for anyone who wants a break from the typical Yakuza drama and wants to enjoy a lighthearted comedy series.
Tokyo Tribe (2014)
Based on the manga of the same name, Tokyo Tribe is a wild and chaotic ride through a fictionalized version of Tokyo’s criminal underworld. With its larger-than-life characters, hip-hop soundtrack, and colorful visuals, Tokyo Tribe is a Yakuza movie.
The Mole Song: Undercover Agent Reiji (2013)
The Mole Song: Undercover Agent Reiji follows the titular character, a rookie police officer who goes undercover in a Yakuza clan to take down a drug ring. With its over-the-top action scenes and comedic tone, The Mole Song is an entertaining addition to the genre.
Bottom Line
The Yakuza genre of Japanese cinema is a fascinating world full of complex themes and characters. From exploring the code of honor and loyalty to depicting brutal violence and exploring the bonds of family and brotherhood, these films offer a unique and intriguing look into the criminal underworld of Japan. From tv series like Tokyo Vice to movies like Outrage, there is something to enjoy in each representation of the Yakuza genre.
