DVD Reviews

Bloody Territories

I’m no expert on Japanese Yakuza films, in fact, as far as I know, this may have been the first one I’ve ever watched.  If other Yakuza films are like this one, then I want more!

Due to police pressure, a few yakuza clans have decided to do the honorable thing, disband and find fortune elsewhere. However the Onogi clan doesn’t want to give up their turf and refuses to sign the pact.  Business continues as usual until some punks start showing up and giving the townspeople trouble. The young punks belong to the Kansai Association, a group of yakuza who are moving in to take over the recently abandoned territories.

Though I found the acting to be a tad bit poor at times, the direction and look of the film made up for it.  What shines however, is the story.  I’m not sure what it was but I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next throughout this film.  The film made me feel sorry for the Onogi clan, so filled with honour and caring for it’s members, I almost forgot they were Yakuza (not that there’s anything wrong with being Yakuza of course).  I’m looking forward to more Japanese films and especially Yakuza films because of this DVD.

HVe’s brings out another great release here.  Bloody Territories comes in a very nice anamorphic transfer. The print is almost spotless and free of age damage. It is a bit on the soft side but the contrast levels are nicely done.  There is some grain visible throughout the film but it is extremely minor and very acceptable for a thirty+ year old film.

Audio is presented here in mono format.  The Japanese language track is quite clear with only very subtle background noise in parts.  For the most part, the dialogue and music are crisp, clear and well balanced.  Can’t really complain here (other then it being mono of course).  Subtitles are presented in English for those unable to understand Japanese

While HVe’s does a good job in the audio and video departments, they fail in the extras department as there are few supplements to be found on the disc. The film’s original theatrical trailer is included, as well as a promo for HVe’s Zatoichi films.   There’s also a Yasuharu Hasebe filmography and liner notes written by Chris D. which are quite informative.

Fans of Japanese films and especially those of the Yakuza sub-genre will do well by this release.  Though lacking any real extras, the audio and video presentations of this old film make this release well worth it.  If you aren’t familiar with the genre, this may be a good entry to start with. I do recommend that everyone at least give this DVD a rental.

Review By Rob Harding