Choueki juhachi-nen
Director: Tai Katô
Actors: Noboru Andô, Shinobu Chihara, Reiichi Hatanaka
PlotIn a gritty urban landscape, a once-notorious gangster named Yuji returns to society after serving an 18-year prison sentence. Struggling to adapt to the changes around him, he is haunted by his past and the criminal deeds that led to his incarceration. Despite attempts to forge a new path, Yuji finds himself pulled back into the underworld by old rivals and allies who are now embroiled in a volatile power struggle. As he grapples with conflicting loyalties, his brother, Takeshi, emerges as a successful but morally ambiguous businessman, whose seemingly legitimate operations are intertwined with questionable dealings.
Haunted by regrets and longing to make amends, Yuji discovers a sinister plan orchestrated by a powerful crime syndicate that threatens both his family and the fragile peace he seeks. Determined to protect his brother from descending further into a cycle of corruption, Yuji faces an internal conflict between revisiting his old ways and embracing the possible redemption offered by a new life. Navigating through betrayal and allegiance, Yuji must confront his past while striving to save what remains of his future, realizing that the consequences of his actions hold the key to either resolve or doom. As tensions mount, he is faced with choices that test the very essence of his character and ultimately shape the course of his fate.
Writers: Kazuo Kasahara, Shin Morita
Release Date: N/A
Runtime: 90 min
Rating: N/A
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese
Home Video Reviews
Eighteen Years in Prison offers a compelling character study with solid technical merits; despite limited extras, historical insights make this Blu-ray highly recommended.
Read our review of Choueki juhachi-nen Blu-ray 懲役十八年 Chōeki jū hachi-nen | Limited Edition to find out more