This immediate sequel to the cult and violent classic from the same year doesn't bother changing the formula in any way, shape or form. Instead director Shigehiro Ozawa gives us exactly the same kind of movie as before in mood, look and plot. The plot itself is the weakest aspect of the film, and seems like a weak rerun of the original movie's storyline. Indeed many of the same things happen to the characters. Another annoyance is the inclusion of some unwanted long flashback scenes, made to pad out the already short running time. Ignore these grievances and you'll find yourself watching another good old ultra-violent tale of action, revenge and much kicking. Another welcome return is the funky score, complete with a highly memorable theme tune which grows on you every time you hear it.
Sonny Chiba is back as Terry Tsurugi, once again on top form and seemingly enjoying himself in the multiple action stakes. Once the action begins - pretty much from the first scene - Chiba takes on assassin after assassin before finally deciding to attack the bad guys himself, with the film culminating in an exciting massacre that very nearly equals the legendary finale of the first movie. There are some nicely varied locations - the fight on the ski slopes is great, and the attack in the bedroom is a fun touch. As well as the returning Chiba, chief villain Junjo (the sickly-looking guy) also comes back, minus vocal chords but with a brand spanking new electronic voice box, leading to a couple of cool showdowns between the two larger-than-life characters.
What of the old ultra-violence you may ask? Well, it has been toned down here, but only slightly. Expect to see lots of bloody shootings, impalements, bone breaking, and a shock gore effect to outdo the first film's infamous X-ray moment. Add a touch of pathos here and there as minor characters are killed and Chiba is forced to emote a little before getting back to his job, killing many villains. Don't let the lapses in logic dissuade you - this is still a fantastic action film at a comic book level, highly watchable and 99% engaging. Lovers of the first film, check it out!
Sonny Chiba is back as Terry Tsurugi, once again on top form and seemingly enjoying himself in the multiple action stakes. Once the action begins - pretty much from the first scene - Chiba takes on assassin after assassin before finally deciding to attack the bad guys himself, with the film culminating in an exciting massacre that very nearly equals the legendary finale of the first movie. There are some nicely varied locations - the fight on the ski slopes is great, and the attack in the bedroom is a fun touch. As well as the returning Chiba, chief villain Junjo (the sickly-looking guy) also comes back, minus vocal chords but with a brand spanking new electronic voice box, leading to a couple of cool showdowns between the two larger-than-life characters.
What of the old ultra-violence you may ask? Well, it has been toned down here, but only slightly. Expect to see lots of bloody shootings, impalements, bone breaking, and a shock gore effect to outdo the first film's infamous X-ray moment. Add a touch of pathos here and there as minor characters are killed and Chiba is forced to emote a little before getting back to his job, killing many villains. Don't let the lapses in logic dissuade you - this is still a fantastic action film at a comic book level, highly watchable and 99% engaging. Lovers of the first film, check it out!