Re:Born - Movie Review

Re:Born (2017)

Ray reviews Re:Born, an action film starring Sakaguchi Tak and directed by Shimomura Yuji. The “Japanese John Wick” comparison fits: instead of a murdered dog, Toshiro’s niece is kidnapped, sending the retired special-ops soldier after those responsible.

Action and appeal

The film’s main attraction is Sakaguchi’s raw, unconventional fighting style, with plenty of upper-body movement, throat-slitting, and dramatic bullet-dodging. The action is so over-the-top that it can be hard to take seriously; Ray jokes that Toshiro seems to have Super Mario’s star power-up for nearly the entire film.

The plot adds its own bizarre fun. Phantom can brainwash people with a single word, while the ruthless Abyss Walker cuts down allies and enemies alike.

Criticisms

Ray finds that the action can drag, particularly during the lengthy assault on the enemy headquarters, and Toshiro rarely seems to be in real danger. Several intriguing supporting characters—a former war buddy, a deadly woman played by Shiina Rina, and a break-dancing fighter played by Sakaguchi Makoto—get less screen time and development than Ray would have liked. He also questions Toshiro’s decision to let his niece be kidnapped in order to locate the enemy base.

Verdict

Ray recommends Re:Born to Sakaguchi fans, but cautions viewers not to expect more than extravagant, highly violent action.

People mentioned: Ray, Sakaguchi Tak, Shimomura Yuji, Saito Takumi, Shiina Rina, and Sakaguchi Makoto. Characters discussed: Toshiro, Phantom, and Abyss Walker.