'Vengeance is Mine' was (adapted from a famous book) and based on a true story of a mindless serial killer (from the Far East). You never really know (or understand) why the vengeance is meted out, though he seems to have an eternal grudge against his father. Like 'In the Realm of the Senses' (two years before) the culture is further away in difference, than the actual air miles to Japan. it's beautifully shot and with a fine attention to detail. The subject matter is harsh, gruesome but never in an exploitative way. Japanese cinema always has the power to surprise and the willingness of his girlfriend to become his final victim, is a further shocking dimension. This actually won 'Best Film' at the Japanese academy awards (in 1979), which shows this country is not shy to reward such a controversial film.
Review of Vengeance Is Mine
