The Wicked

Synopsis

"The Wicked" (original title: わるいやつら), released in 1980 and directed by Takao Kataoka, is a Japanese crime drama that delves into the dark and gritty underbelly of society. The film unfolds the story of a complex character caught in a web of deceit, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. Set against the backdrop of Osaka's criminal world, it explores themes of loyalty, power struggles, and the blurred lines between good and evil. With a tense narrative and atmospheric cinematography, "The Wicked" offers a raw and unflinching look at the lives of those who operate on the fringes of the law, driven by desperation and survival instinct.

Cast

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  Takao Kataoka

  Dr. Shinichi Toya

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  Keiko Matsuzaka

  Takako - Fashion Designer

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  Mariko Fuji

  Tatsuko Yokotake

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  Junko Miyashita

  Toyo Terashima - Head Nurse

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  Meiko Kaji

  Chise Fujishima

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  Makoto Fujita

  Sakuo Shimomizawa

Reviews

"The Wicked" has garnered a mixed reception over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.5/10, indicating a division among audiences regarding its execution and storytelling. Critics have noted that while the movie succeeds in creating a compelling atmosphere and exhibits strong character portrayals, it occasionally struggles with pacing and narrative clarity. For instance, some viewers praise the film for its authentic depiction of the Japanese crime scene and commend Takao Kataoka's direction for its stylistic choices. However, others point out that the plot can feel convoluted, with certain scenes dragging longer than necessary, which may hinder engagement. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, though formal aggregated scores are not available due to limited international reviews, the consensus aligns with the IMDb feedback — the film is appreciated for its mood and thematic ambition but criticized for uneven narrative delivery. Overall, "The Wicked" is often regarded as a cult film for fans of vintage Japanese crime cinema, offering a unique glimpse into 1980s societal undercurrents but not universally appealing to mainstream audiences.

See also

Transporter 2

Army of Shadows

The Year of Living Dangerously

3 Women