Velvet Hustler

About This Movie

So, 'Velvet Hustler' from '67 is this gritty little gem that dives deep into the yakuza underbelly, following young hitman Goro as he dodges the law and deals with the chaos around him. The film has this raw, seedy atmosphere, showcasing Tokyo's nightlife and the murky edges of criminal life. The pacing varies, picking up tension and then slowing down for those quiet moments where Goro interacts with both shady characters and women who are just as complicated. There's a palpable sense of dread as he becomes entangled in a murder case, and the performances are pretty solid, with Goro’s character showing depth against the backdrop of a world that’s constantly at war with itself. It's definitely one of those films that captures a time and place really well, making it stand out in the genre.

This film has become somewhat of a collector's curiosity due to its obscure status and the unknown director behind it. There aren't many quality prints available, which adds to its allure; you might find bootlegs floating around, but a good copy is quite rare. As a piece of yakuza cinema, 'Velvet Hustler' piques interest for those who appreciate the genre's evolution during the late '60s, making it a niche but valued addition to any collection focused on crime and action films from that era.