Yakuza of the Present

About This Movie

So here we have 'Yakuza of the Present', a gritty 1973 film that captures the tension of the era with its raw portrayal of the underworld. The pacing is somewhat deliberate, allowing the atmosphere to build, which gives the viewer time to really feel the struggle of our protagonist. He’s a sushi chef trying to escape his past, but the pull of loyalty and blood ties is strong. The performances lay it all bare; there’s a real sense of conflict, especially when he confronts the modern yakuza encroaching on his territory. You can feel the weight of tradition clashing with the new wave, and that’s really what makes this film stand out in the genre.

The film has seen limited releases over the years, making original prints somewhat hard to come by. Its unique take on the yakuza drama, juxtaposed with the sushi restaurant setting, has sparked niche interest among collectors who appreciate lesser-known gems from the 70s. As a piece of cinema, it's fascinating for its exploration of identity and loyalty, and it definitely deserves a spot in any serious collection focused on the evolution of yakuza films.