Iconic Japanese filmmaker, Takeshi Kitano (北野武), is set to premiere his latest work, Broken Rage, at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on September 6, 2024. This marks the first time a Japanese streaming film has been officially selected for the prestigious event. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Broken Rage is slated for global release on Prime Video in 2025.
Kitano, known for his dual career as a comedian and filmmaker, takes on the roles of director, screenwriter, and lead actor in Broken Rage. The film, themed around “violence and comedy,” is a bold two-part narrative. The first half presents a gritty crime thriller, while the second half revisits the same story in a comedic, self-parodic style. This innovative approach has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike, with anticipation building for its debut at the festival.
A Star-Studded Cast and Unconventional Plot
In Broken Rage, Kitano plays Nezumi, a hitman caught between the police and the yakuza. As he fights for survival in Tokyo’s underworld, the first half of the film delivers intense action and suspense. However, the second half flips the narrative on its head, providing a comedic twist on the same events.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Tadanobu Asano, Naoto Takenaka, and Shido Nakamura, among others. Asano, playing Detective Inoue, is tasked with convincing Nezumi to work as an undercover agent in a drug investigation. Asano commented, “I was thrilled to join Kitano’s new challenge and was blown away by the unique storyline.” His co-star, Naoto Takenaka, who portrays Detective Fukuda, added, “Kitano’s set was a perfect balance of tension and laughter, making it an unforgettable experience.”
Notably, Broken Rage features several prominent Japanese comedians making their debut in a Kitano film, including Gekidan Hitori and Masaki Hasegawa. Their presence in the cast promises to amplify the comedic elements in the second half of the film.
A Milestone for Japanese Cinema
Kitano’s Broken Rage is a significant achievement for Japanese streaming content, as it becomes the first such film to be featured at the Venice Film Festival. Kitano is no stranger to Venice, having won the prestigious Golden Lion for HANA-BI in 1997 and the Silver Lion for Zatoichi in 2003.
The film’s selection at the Venice Film Festival highlights the growing global appreciation of Japanese cinema and streaming platforms like Prime Video. With Broken Rage set for a worldwide release in 2025, Kitano’s signature blend of violence and humour is sure to resonate with international audiences.