TotalTelly.co.uk
Devoted to Popular, Cult and Retro TV
Ichi The Killer [2003]
![Ichi The Killer [2003]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51A90084QYL._SL160_.jpg)
RRP: £19.99
Our Price: £8.90 (subject to change)
SICK BUT ENTERTAINING IN A WAY
Review date: 2008-07-03 Rating: 8 out of 10
When I first saw ICHI THE KILLER it was the 15-minutes-cut-out German DVD version, it didn't leave an impression on me. Just another pointless film. But after seeing the Unrated US version I must say, this movie has an impact. Although excessively violent and sadistic (all though the over-the-top gore cannot be taken seriously) it is quite entertaining and can well live up to the other MIIKE films. Tadanobu Asano (Kakihara) plays a well enough sado-masochistic baddie (quite a character!) whom you will remember well afterwards! I must say this is one of the most groundbreaking films within the last decade, although not for all tastes. On the negative side: I got the impression Miike hates women, as they are constantly being beaten and tortured throughout the movie. I didn't care much for that! Otherwise a very sick but fun film.
Similar Products
Reviews
Bit Disappointing
Review date: 2008-05-06 Rating: 6 out of 10
Had high hopes for this film but its not a patch on other Asian crime films like Oldboy or Infernal Affairs.
Its starts well but loses pace and the middle section drags on. I also found the plot not particularly believable. The charismatic figure of Kakihara keeps the film going. There is plenty of blood and gore if thats what you're after!
Somewhere in between....
Review date: 2008-03-25 Rating: 6 out of 10
Having just read two opposing reviews for this film, I thought I would give my two pennies worth. This is not a brilliant film. It's not a bad film either, though.
From a directorial perspective, it is beautifully shot. The sequences are memorable and innovative, and all credit there. The violence may be gratutious, but then that is only to be expected given the genre. It is hard not to be impressed by the effectiveness of this violence however (it's important to bear in mind that this is all cinematography, and that however disturbing it may be to see this level of torture for real, it IS all fakery). Despite all the horrific torture scenes filmed, the most memorable effect in this film has to be when Tadanobu Asano opens and closes his mouth when it is unpinned. Always sticks in my mind, anyway...
As far as the plot goes, I am inclined to lean towards the previously expressed opinion that the ultraviolence lies in context, and that Asian writers and directors pay far more attention to the psychological depths of their characters than is deemed necessary in Hollywood. There are far better films in the genre, but this is perfectly watchable. Or at least it is if you've seen the animated film that bears the same name. I would highly recommend watching the animated prequel first, otherwise I don't think enough is understood of the motives and purposes of the title character.
Overall, this is worth a look. I own an extensive collection of Tartan Video' "Asian Extreme" films, and I have to say that after renting this film, I haven't yet been compelled to buy it for my collection. One for the rentals, I think.
AWSOME!!!
Review date: 2008-03-02 Rating: 10 out of 10
I loved this movie, it was over the top, sick and wierd and i loved it!! it is a must watch for anyone looking to get into watching any asian extreme movies, although the effects are not spectactular, the screwed up storyline makes up for it. it took me a couple of watches to understand it fully and being able to understand the story line makes this film so much more chilling and strange. if you dont like too much over the top blood and gore then this film is not for you. but so far out of the asian extremes ive watched this film and vistor Q are my favourites. give a watch
Pointless, absolutely pointless
Review date: 2008-02-27 Rating: 2 out of 10
What is the point of this film ? I guess there must be a theme in there somewhere but if there is it is well hidden.
Unlike some of the other negative reviews posted on here, my problem is not with the violence, which is typically done in a joking fashion to lessen the impact. My problem with this film is that it has no point, there is no story and as far as I can tell the entire film was written solely as a vehicle for the violance it displays.
Avoid, this is truely dreadful stuff.
Product Details/Specifications
Actor(s):
Tadanobu Asano
Nao Omori
Paulyn Sun
Shinya Tsukamoto
Susumu Terajima
Creators:
Tadanobu Asano (Primary Contributor)
Nao Omori (Primary Contributor)
Akiko Funatsu (Producer)
Albert Yeung (Producer)
Dai Miyazaki (Producer)
Elliot Tong (Producer)
Sumiji Miyake (Producer)
Hideo Yamamoto (Writer)
Sakichi Satô (Writer)
Director(s):
Recording label: Contender Entertainment Group
Manufacturer: Contender Entertainment Group
EAN: 5032438508044
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 2
Format: Anamorphic, Box set, Collector's Edition, PAL,
Release date: 2003-06-02
Number of discs: 2
Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
Audience rating: Suitable for 18 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 120 minutes
Language: English (Original Language)
Language: Japanese (Original Language)