Ichi the Killer (2001) Review in 2025
Ichi the Killer is a Japanese horror film that tells the story of a young man who becomes involved in a dark and violent world.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Absolutely not, this film is extremely violent and disturbing.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is not for the faint of heart. If you're a fan of horror and crime thrillers, you may enjoy it. However, if you're easily disturbed or offended, it's best to avoid it.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film follows the story of Kakihara, a yakuza member who becomes obsessed with Ichi, a young man with a rare condition that makes him extremely violent. As Kakihara's obsession grows, he becomes increasingly unhinged, leading to a violent and disturbing climax.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is dark and twisted, with a unique and unsettling premise. However, it can be a bit predictable at times.
acting6.00/10
The acting is solid, with some standout performances from the cast. However, some of the actors can be a bit wooden at times.
characters6.00/10
The characters are well-developed, but some of them can be a bit one-dimensional. Kakihara's obsession with Ichi is particularly well-portrayed.
direction8.00/10
Takashi Miike's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a sense of pacing that keeps the film moving.
cinematography7.00/10
The cinematography is gritty and realistic, with a focus on dark colors and shadows. However, it can be a bit overused at times.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's dark and twisted premise, combined with Takashi Miike's masterful direction, make it a standout in the horror genre.
Cons
The film's violence and disturbing content can be off-putting, and some of the characters can be a bit one-dimensional.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a killer, I'm a cleaner."
"You're not a human being, you're a monster."
