Japanese values and approaches are rather different from the Western ones, and as regards scripts, they often focus on a single thing rather than create a varied story. Here, the events take place in and around a school of male delinquents, but the only topic is achieving power through battling, no references to teaching and learning, youngsters' hobbies, their parents, etc. Inclusion of a female seems odd and provides no additional value, yakuza themes could have been avoided as well.
Characters' names are often confusing, types are similar, often was the clothing that helped to determine the different gang leaders... Shun Oguri as Takiya Genji was distinguishable, but still - high school boys were played by actors almost 25 years old, so their looks was in contrast with immature behaviour and plain intentions. Fights are visually catchy, but rather unrealistic as they resulted in a visible blood only, no broken bones or teeth.
An okay film if you are a guy and like intense fights and constant struggling for imaginary power. Otherwise, skip to Desu Nōto and Batoru Rowaiaru.
Characters' names are often confusing, types are similar, often was the clothing that helped to determine the different gang leaders... Shun Oguri as Takiya Genji was distinguishable, but still - high school boys were played by actors almost 25 years old, so their looks was in contrast with immature behaviour and plain intentions. Fights are visually catchy, but rather unrealistic as they resulted in a visible blood only, no broken bones or teeth.
An okay film if you are a guy and like intense fights and constant struggling for imaginary power. Otherwise, skip to Desu Nōto and Batoru Rowaiaru.