"The Yakuza" is one of those slow introductory films that seems like it will be pure melodrama, but then dramatically turns into full-fledged action served with a side of revenge. Director Sydney Pollack has no fears of educating the nondescript viewer into the world of Japanese culture, specifically that of the renowned Yakuza. Robert Mitchum is our lead, as we travel into Japan to help a friend, reunite with family, and eventually bring down a whole slew of gangsters. This film begins like a simple trip, all the normal stops are made and emotional heartstrings are pulled - it is dull at first. Pollack's introduction into not only the world of the Yakuza, but also into Mitchum's past with our majority characters initially felt heavy. While it was easy to follow these characters, more was needed to make our interaction with them more enticing, or more relevant. The first act of this film pulls out of the gate, with no hope of finishing the race. Mitchum is entertaining as a man knowledgeable of Japanese culture, and because we didn't quite know all of his past, he is captivatingly mischievous. His friends, his possible daughter, his connections with the gangsters, kept my eyes glued to the screen - even if the beginning of the journey jaded me. Then, "The Yakuza" changed.
What was at the outset was this uninteresting voyage from point A to point B in Mitchum's past, suddenly (and surprisingly) transformed into this action film, equipped with double-cross, mayhem, and deliciously choreographed fight sequences. It felt as if Mitchum wanted to get his feet we prior to just firing a gun throughout the film, and I don't blame him - but the pace drastically needed to be quicker. Then Pollack introduced us to, whom many consider the "star" of this film, Ken Takakura. My first introduction to this man, I was left desiring more. His stone stare, the pensive ego, the unknown past (both in this film and an actor) brought a fresh page to this story. His quiet demeanor allowed us to understand the Japanese Yakuza culture and comprehend the pride that follows. As Takakura enters this film, it changes. He brings life into an otherwise recycled drama - and I think Pollack knows that. Whenever possible he uses Takakura, and weaves a story that at times feels more about Takakura than about Mitchum. Perhaps the work of Takakura's acting ability, or more the ability that a young Paul Schrader had prior to "Taxi Driver" - this film becomes an important film once Takakura becomes involved.
I must admit, this film took several times to get into, especially with the sluggish introduction. I wasn't sold on Mitchum, trying to understand his relationship with everyone else surrounding him - and wondering why at nearly forty minutes we hadn't been properly introduced to the Yakuza yet. Then, like a phoenix in the night - Takakura arrives, and we are handed a powerful film full of betrayal and consequences. Pollack's direction, much like Mitchum's character, takes a moment to warm up, but in full swing, Pollack understands what he is doing and executes without forgiveness. "The Yakuza" is a brilliant film, one of those classic 70s films that I could imagine watching as a child and finding respect for the Yakuza. Like what "Goodfellas" was in the 90s, "The Yakuza" creates that same atmosphere - yet probably less watched. My suggestion - trudge through the first thirty minutes, and be prepared for a film that requires another viewing, an attention to detail, and a combination of both intriguing acting and powerful direction. "The Yakuza" was impressive.
Despite much arguing with myself, I am adding this film to the collection. The overall tones and final scenes secured it for me. Found in my "Time Out Film Guide 10th Edition - 2002", I am surprised to find myself saying that I cannot wait to watch this again. Takakura is phenomenal.
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