Tokyo Drifter Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 2.35:1, and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Seijun Suzuki's Tokyo Drifter on Blu-ray by Criterion offers a commendable 1080p transfer. This high-definition digital transfer, created from a 35mm low-contrast print via Spirit Datacine, has undergone extensive manual restoration work, including the removal of thousands of instances of dirt, debris, scratches, and other defects using MTI’s DRS and Pixel Farm’s PFClean. Image System's DVNR was also utilized for grain and noise reduction. This meticulous process results in a remarkably clean transfer, maintaining the original film grain while effectively eliminating large damage marks and warps.

The video quality shows substantial improvement over Criterion’s previous non-anamorphic DVD release. The restored high-definition transfer exhibits exceptional color fidelity with vibrant reds, yellows, blues, and greens that are visually striking, particularly in the film's psychedelic bar scenes. Although there are moments of noticeable Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), it does not detract significantly from the viewing experience. The ambient colors maintain their lush and dreamy quality, particularly evident in the more vividly shot scenes.

Detailing has seen a marked enhancement, showcasing textures during close-ups with improved clarity. However, some finer details appear slightly waxy due to DNR application, which smooths over facial pores, albeit at a minor cost to sharpness. Contrast levels are exceptionally well balanced even in the film’s high-contrast black and white prologue, which appears as intended by the director despite differing interpretations. Overall, Criterion's presentation of Tokyo Drifter on Blu-ray is a technically impressive and visually pleasing offering that underscores the film’s stylish aesthetic while respecting its original film elements.

The audio presentation of "Tokyo Drifter" on Blu-ray features a single remastered uncompressed Japanese LPCM 1.0 track. Criterion provides optional English subtitles, which appear neatly within the image frame when activated. The disc’s booklet details the meticulous remastering process, which includes 24-bit remastering from the original soundtrack print, with Pro Tools HD used to manually eliminate clicks, thumps, hiss, and hum. Additionally, AudioCube's integrated workstation was employed to attenuate crackle.

The monaural soundtrack boasts impressive depth and fluidity, with Shigeyoshi Mine's distinctive score receiving a notable boost. Dialogue remains stable and crisp throughout the film. However, there are occasional instances of slight hiss and very light vocal crackling, though these minor imperfections do not distract from the overall experience. The track retains its original monaural characteristics yet manages to deliver surprisingly dynamic audio from a single speaker. The music spans various styles, at times echoing 'Dragnet' and at others, reminiscent of trumpet-driven tracks found in the 'Kill Bill' soundtracks, all of which sound clear and well-separated from the dialogue.

While there is an apparent scarcity of sound effects—stemming from the original master rather than the transfer—this preserves the authenticity of the source material. Furthermore, there are isolated moments where voiced-over dubs reveal actors not matching the spoken words, though this rare occurrence does not require fluency in Japanese to notice. Overall, Criterion’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the original audio without unnecessary modifications is commendable.

The extras for the Blu-ray edition of "Tokyo Drifter" provide an insightful and comprehensive dive into the film’s production, directorial perspective, and historical context. Interviews with director Seijun Suzuki and assistant director Masami Kuzuu illuminate the inner workings of the 1960s Japanese film industry, while shedding light on the creative challenges and studio conflicts faced during the making of the film. Suzuki’s reflections, recorded during a 1997 retrospective, offer valuable commentary on his contentious relationship with Nikkatsu studios and his broader cinematic vision. These extras are complemented by a booklet featuring an essay by film critic Howard Hampton, presenting a well-rounded view of the cultural and cinematic impact of "Tokyo Drifter".

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: An original theatrical trailer for "Tokyo Drifter". In Japanese, with optional English subtitles.
• Seijun Suzuki and Masami Kuzuu: A new interview where the director and assistant director discuss the production history of "Tokyo Drifter".
• Seijun Suzuki: An interview recorded during a retrospective, offering Suzuki’s insights on his career and contemporary Japanese cinema.
• Booklet: An illustrated booklet featuring an essay by film critic Howard Hampton.

"Tokyo Drifter" (1966) directed by Seijun Suzuki, remarkably manifests as a film that harmonizes a kaleidoscopic visual flair with a frenetic narrative structure. Embracing an avant-garde aesthetic, the film features the colorful yet chaotic journey of Tetsu, a reformed yakuza loyalist, portrayed by Tetsuya Watari. After his boss Kurata's attempt to transition their operations to legality is thwarted by rival yakuza, Tetsu's loyalty propels him into a perilous drift through the countryside. The gaudy costumes, notably Tetsu’s bright blue suit and white shoes, along with his melodious crooning amidst violence, elevate the film’s eccentricity and underscore Suzuki’s distinctive approach. Similar to Lucio Fulci's works and Kazuhiko Yamaguchi’s "Wandering Ginza Butterfly", this film thrives on its striking visual tapestry and unconventional plot elements.

Drawing inevitable comparisons with Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill" series, "Tokyo Drifter" stands out with its pulsating jazz score by Shigeyoshi Mine, surreal combat sequences, and audacious editing styles. The film's innovative use of oversaturated color in the transitions from black and white imagery, together with unconventional overhead shots and minimalist set designs, exemplifies Suzuki’s experimental prowess. Furthermore, the audacious stylization is not merely superficial; it accentuates the film’s thematic exploration of loyalty versus self-preservation. Encapsulating mixtures of intense drama and absurd humor, Suzuki’s direction challenges and captivates audiences simultaneously.

Technically impressive, "Tokyo Drifter" transcends its era with visuals ahead of its time. The homage-like black & white segments seamlessly blend into the vividly colored scenes, enhancing the narrative intensity. This juxtaposition emphasizes varied moods throughout Tetsu’s tumultuous journey. The Criterion release on Blu-ray not only preserves these visual and auditory spectacles in pristine quality but also enriches comprehension through supplemental interviews and insightful essays. Through its bizarre yet captivating whirlwind of style and substance, "Tokyo Drifter" redefines genre conventions, firmly establishing itself as a cult classic within both Japanese cinema and broader cinematic discourse.

Seijun Suzuki's "Tokyo Drifter" is a dazzling cinematic experience, marrying vibrant style with a heart that refuses to take itself too seriously. The film's unconventional narrative and psychedelic artistry set it apart as a film significantly ahead of its time. For enthusiasts of creative and influential cinema, "Tokyo Drifter" presents a unique viewing experience that showcases its lasting impact on the genre, notably reflected in contemporary works like Quentin Tarantino’s "Kill Bill."

Criterion's Blu-ray presentation of "Tokyo Drifter" is laudable, offering a cleaned-up picture quality that enhances the film's visual splendor. Although traces of Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) slightly diminish the vibrancy of the colors, the overall quality is markedly improved from the original footage. The mono audio track remains clear, notwithstanding occasional distorted crackling over the vocal segments. The included special features may be brief, but they effectively highlight the film's historical importance and justify its inclusion in the prestigious Criterion Collection.

In conclusion, Seijun Suzuki's "Tokyo Drifter" is a beautiful and deliriously poetic film that should not be missed. Criterion's competent and enormously pleasing presentation ensures that this psychedelic extravaganza can be appreciated by both new viewers and long-time fans. Tokyo Drifter is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for anyone valuing creative cinema that transcends its era.