"A Family" Reveals the Fading Glory of the Yakuza in a Compelling Drama
"A Family," also known as "Yakuza and the Family," is a 2021 Japanese film that breaks away from traditional yakuza narratives by providing a realistic depiction of the declining influence of organized crime groups in Japan. Directed by Michihito Fujii and released on Netflix, the movie offers a fresh perspective on the yakuza, shedding light on the impact of anti-gangster legislation and the changing dynamics of contemporary Japanese society. While the film falls short in character development, it serves as an important addition to the discourse surrounding organized crime in Japan.
Plot Summary
The story of "A Family" follows the life of Kenji Yamamoto, portrayed by Go Ayano, as he navigates his involvement with the yakuza. Set in 1999, the film begins with a teenage Kenji attending his father's funeral, vowing never to follow in his footsteps. Kenji's encounter with a local yakuza syndicate led by Hiroshi Shibasaki, played by Hiroshi Tachi, propels him into a life of crime, with Shibasaki becoming a surrogate father figure.
The narrative then jumps to 2006, where Kenji is deeply involved in Shibasaki's organization and pursues a romantic relationship with Yuka, a bar hostess. As a territorial dispute escalates, Kenji finds himself caught up in a violent incident that results in a 14-year prison sentence.
The final section of the film fast-forwards to 2019, with Kenji's release from prison. He attempts to reconnect with Shibasaki, Yuka, and his former gang mates, only to discover that the anti-yakuza measures enacted during his incarceration have dramatically transformed the landscape. Facing discrimination, exclusion, and limited opportunities, Kenji must redefine his place in society and seek a new sense of belonging.
The Realities of Decline
"A Family" distinguishes itself by delving into the consequences of anti-yakuza laws and their impact on the lives of former gang members. These regulations, implemented by local governments starting in the early 2010s, restrict the yakuza's ability to engage in commercial activities and social interactions. The film explores the difficulties faced by individuals returning from prison, who struggle to reintegrate into society due to the stigma associated with their past affiliations.
Character Development and Missed Opportunities
While the film effectively portrays the consequences of anti-yakuza laws, it falls short in terms of character development. Relationships between characters, including Kenji and Shibasaki, lack depth, leaving the audience longing for stronger emotional connections. The romantic subplot between Kenji and Yuka also feels underdeveloped, missing an opportunity to explore the complexities of personal relationships within the yakuza world.
Social Commentary and Cinematic Quality
Despite its shortcomings in character development, "A Family" succeeds in shedding light on the changing dynamics of Japanese society and the decline of the yakuza. The film offers valuable insights into the consequences of exclusion ordinances and the emergence of a new generation of "hangure," filling the void left by the waning influence of organized crime. Visually, the film showcases competent cinematography, with notable moments that capture the bleakness of industrial cityscapes and reinforce the film's narrative themes.
Conclusion
"A Family" serves as an important contribution to the discourse surrounding the fading glory of the yakuza in Japan. Through its realistic portrayal of the impact of anti-yakuza legislation, the film exposes the challenges faced by former gang members as they strive to reintegrate into society. While the film falls short in terms of character development, its exploration of the changing dynamics of Japanese society and the consequences of exclusion laws offers valuable insights. "A Family" opens the door for further exploration of these themes in future films and fosters a deeper understanding of contemporary Japanese culture.
A Family (2021) - info
- Release date: January 29, 2021
- Genre: Drama, Yakuza, Crime
- Director: Michihito Fujii
- Writer: Michihito Fujii
- Stars: Gô Ayano, Naoyuki Fernandez, Hayato Ichihara