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So, 'Troubleman Laughs and Kills' is kind of a quirky gem from '79, right? It’s Kensho Yamashita’s first shot at directing, and you can feel that raw energy throughout. The tone bounces between humor and absurdity, with a pacing that sometimes feels like it can't decide what it wants to be—it's got this kind of chaotic charm. The practical effects are delightfully low-budget, which adds to its offbeat appeal. The performances are really something; they oscillate between over-the-top and oddly sincere, which somehow pulls you in deeper. It’s not your standard fare, and that distinctiveness gives it a unique life among other comedies of the era.
This film has had some interesting format history, with VHS copies being the most common but hard to find in good condition. There's definitely a niche collector interest due to its oddball nature and the fact that it's Yamashita's debut, so it piques curiosity. The scarcity of well-preserved editions makes it a standout for those who appreciate offbeat comedies from the late '70s, and it rarely pops up at conventions or in collector circles.
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