"LUMBERJACK THE MONSTER" is a new Netflix movie from iconic Japanese director Takashi Miike. The original title is Kaibutsu no kikori which is the title of the book it's based on. It's a horror-thriller and the movie is from Japan, but the character-driven plot gives it a South Korean vibe...
This one even has a serial killer mystery plot makes sense & has plenty to cover during its runtime...
There is a serial killer and obviously, a serial killer is not a "guy good". However, there is actually a solid reason for his murder spree...
The movie's boldest idea is that psychopathy could be a desirable trait...
Miike, known for his intense and often shocking storytelling, crafts a narrative that is both horrifying and deeply engaging. The film kicks off with a ferocious intensity, immediately throwing viewers into Ninomiya's world of cold-blooded ambition and relentless pursuit. Kamenashi delivers a compelling performance, capturing the lawyer's transformation from a cold-hearted professional to a man consumed by vengeance. His portrayal is chilling, particularly in scenes where his character's obsession reaches a fever pitch...
The cinematography by Nobuyasu Kita paints a stark picture of Tokyo's underbelly, filled with shadows and lurking dangers. The editing by Naoichiro Sagara ensures that the tension remains high throughout, with quick cuts that leave the audience barely a moment to breathe. This relentless pace is both a strength and a potential drawback, as it sometimes sacrifices character development for sheer adrenaline...
Despite its many strengths, " Lumberjack the Monster" does have its flaws. The relentless focus on violence and gore can feel overwhelming at times, potentially alienating viewers who are not fans of extreme horror. Additionally, while the film's pace keeps the adrenaline high, it sometimes glosses over deeper character development. Ninomiya's transformation is well-acted but could benefit from more nuanced exploration, particularly in his interactions with other characters...
Overall " Lumberjack the Monster" is a gripping addition to Takashi Miike's filmography, offering a brutal and unflinching look at the darker sides of human nature. It's a film that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of extreme horror and psychological thrillers. However, its intense focus on violence and a somewhat shallow character arc may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Despite these shortcomings, the film's high-octane energy and compelling lead performance make it a memorable cinematic experience...
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A Quiet promising addition to thriller genre...!!!
Cool and Unusual
This is a very cool and unusual thriller out of the Japanese film market. From the very beginning it will have you engaged in its creepy feel and disturbing imagery. The movie has many elements involving modern scientific and biological experimentation and their dangers- a modern day Frankenstein's tale, if you will. The acting and cinematography are very engaging. The characters are strong. The story is good, but there are elements that are a little hard to follow. The pacing and action are good. I really like the films of Japan. They have their own sensibility and sense of originality. Worth seeing.
Pretty bad
I know nothing from this film and went in expecting some bloody horror and psychological thriller. Basically some good stuffs with Kame as the lead and Takashi Miike as the director... but in the end, the movie offered none of that.
Like.. the opening of the movie is probably the best bit for me. Showing how ruthless Kame is and how he is a psychopath but also killed people who like did harm (like Dexter). Then when the scene with the sprinkler came in, I was very disappointed. Like the killer decided to stop because he was rained on and some light got turned on? Like lol. There was no other people coming in for help etc. It was a pretty bad scene. And after that, it was just a snooze. No bloody murder scene, no horror or thriller... just all talk and some nonsense shenanigans about the chips on your head. Like lol...
I know it's based on a novel but the initial premise is kinda ridiculous and bad. Also again, the lighting is kinda meh... it felt like another j-drama movie. Nothing special about it.
Kame deserved better.