We can't help but talk about the Japanese action thriller 'Demon City', which is streaming on Netflix from February 27, 2025. Written and directed by Seiji Tanaka, based on the 'Oni Goroshi' manga by Masamichi Kawabe, the film stars Toma Ikuta as the hero. Did this film, full of bloody action and revenge drama, really thrill us? Or did it stop halfway? Let's see in this review!
What is the story?
The story of 'Demon City' takes place in the city of Shinjo. A hitman named Shuhei Sakata (Toma Ikuta) dreams of leaving his violent life behind and starting a new life with his wife Aoi and daughter Ryo. But these dreams are suddenly shattered by a secret organization called the Kimen-Gumi. This gang, wearing demon masks, attacks Sakata's family and kills his wife and daughter. Sakata is also shown dead and framed for the murders. Sakata, who fell into a coma with a gunshot wound to the head, wakes up after 12 years. Now Shinjo City is in the heart of the Kimen-gumi. Sakata starts a bloody war to avenge his family's murders. But, the twists in the story make his revenge even more confusing.
What's in the movie?
First, let's talk about the action scenes in this movie. The fight in the hospital and the brawl scenes on the staircase are really eye-catching. Even though Sakata's body is not working properly on one side, the scenes where he fights his enemies give off a kind of Drunken Master vibe. The fight choreography (Takashi Tanimoto) and Kohei Kato's cinematography give the film a dark, neon-lit underworld look. Tomoyasu Hotei's music, with its 80s-style guitar beats, adds to the action sequences.
Toma Ikuta does a great job as Sakata. He portrays the character with his actions and body language, not his words. The anguish and revenge in his eyes add some strength to the film. One twist in the story, especially involving Sakata's daughter Ryo (Ami Toma), is a bit of a curiosity.
Where did it falter?
While the film is solid in action, the lack of depth in the story is a major minus. The audience is unable to feel Sakata's pain and the loss of his family. The villains, namely the Kimen-Gumi gang, and people like Foucault, are usually still intelligent. So, the monster that attacked them is limited to violence without any body language or style. This makes the story miss an emotional connection.
The story is also very predictable. Those who have seen the trailer will almost know the story of the movie. Sakata waking up from a 12-year coma and suddenly getting into full fighting form seems a bit far from logic. Moreover, it is not clearly stated whether there are supernatural elements in the movie or not, which creates a bit of confusion.
The editing is also not right in some places. Scenes jump from one to the next quickly, due to which the story does not flow smoothly.
Compared to other movies?
Many people compare ‘Demon City’ to films like ‘John Wick’, ‘Kill Bill’, and ‘The Crow’. However, these films impress with their emotional depth and strong character development. It is difficult for ‘Demon City’ to reach that level. Even compared to Japanese Yakuza films, this film feels a bit ordinary.
Should you watch it?
If you like bloody action scenes and gory fights, ‘Demon City’ is a movie worth watching once. You can enjoy the thrill for an hour or two. However, for those expecting a deep story, emotional connection, or something new, this movie will disappoint. Another thing is that the violent scenes in the film, especially one involving children, may be disturbing to some. So, be careful!
Rating: 2.5/5
‘Demon City’ impresses with stylish action and tight fight scenes, but the lack of depth in the story and the lack of emotional connection make it a memorable film. Those who like Japanese action films can give it a try, but if you are expecting the range of ‘John Wick’, you will be disappointed!
Streaming: Netflix
Release date: February 27, 2025
Cast: Toma Ikuta, Masahiro Higashide, Miyu Tanaka, Ami Toma
Director: Seiji Tanaka