Plot: Nakamura's wife is killed in a hit-and-run. The perpetrator is caught and sent to prison for five years. Nakamura lives a sober life, but he was never able to forgive the man who took his wife away from him. Every day, he sends him a message, saying he will kill him the moment he gets out of prison.
Watches
September 12, 2023
A pretty solid drama, that thrives on a single conflict. It's a film I might've liked a little better if I'd watched it ten years ago. It's a fine Japanese drama, with great performances, a gritty premise, and some memorable moments, but there's nothing that truly stands out. With so many similar films under my belt, there's just something missing to make it a certified gem.
The premise is clear, and the drama isn't too complex, but on an emotional level, there is still quite a bit to unpack. The cinematography is appropriately gritty, Yamada and Ando are great, and the film works up to a pretty gripping finale. I have nothing bad to say about The Samurai That Night, except that it doesn't do quite enough to differentiate itself.