* Image is for illustrative purposes only.The Yakuza (1974)
ザ・ヤクザ
A 1974 American film directed by Sydney Pollack, starring Robert Mitchum and Ken Takakura, that depicts the giri-ninjō code of Japan's yakuza world through a climactic katana duel and the ritual of yubitsume.
Description
Overview
The Yakuza (original title: The Yakuza) is a 1974 American film directed by Sydney Pollack. The screenplay is by Paul Schrader and Robert Towne, based on an original story by Leonard Schrader, Paul's brother, who had lived in Japan. The film is also known as the work that gave Ken Takakura, who co-starred with Robert Mitchum, the opportunity to gain international recognition.
Synopsis
A retired American detective, Harry Kilmer, travels to Japan to resolve the case of a friend's daughter who was kidnapped by a Japanese yakuza organization. With the cooperation of former yakuza Ken Tanaka (Ken Takakura), who owes Harry a great debt of giri (obligation) from the postwar years, he confronts the case.
Japanese Swords and Swordplay Appearing in the Film
At the climax, Tanaka settles matters with the rival boss Tono with a sword. Settling the conflict with a sword rather than a gun is presented in the film as traditional yakuza and Japanese giri, and the sword is treated symbolically alongside the samurai-like customs that survive in modern yakuza society, namely the yubitsume (finger-cutting) rite.
Relationship to Historical and Cultural Background
The yubitsume depicted in the film is an apology rite that was actually passed down in yakuza society. The film is evaluated as a work that introduced the jingi culture of Japanese yakuza films to American audiences, with some dramatization.
Cultural Influence and Reception
At the time of its release, critical opinion was divided and the film did not perform well at the box office, but in later years it gained a cult following and has been praised by filmmakers including Quentin Tarantino.
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Film七人の侍
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Anime & Mangaルパン三世（石川五ェ門・斬鉄剣）
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Game信長の野望
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This page is intended to introduce Japanese sword culture and is not affiliated with any of the works mentioned.