Baian the Assassin, M.D.: Part 2

Synopsis

Baian the Assassin, M.D.: Part 2 (仕掛人・藤枝梅安2), released in 2023 and starring Etsushi Toyokawa, continues the gripping tale of Baian, a skilled assassin who also serves as a discreet medical doctor during Japan's Edo period. The film artfully blends historical drama with suspenseful action, delving deeper into Baian's complex dual life as he navigates the perilous underworld while maintaining his medical duties. As political intrigue and personal vendettas escalate, Baian's tactical genius and moral dilemmas come to the forefront, providing viewers with a rich narrative that balances thrilling sequences with thoughtful character development. The cinematography captures the atmospheric streets of Edo, enhancing the immersive experience of this period piece.

Cast

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  Etsushi Toyokawa

  Baian Fujieda

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  Ainosuke Kataoka

  Hikojiro

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  Miho Kanno

  Moon

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  Hayate Ichinose

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  Koichi Sato

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  Kippei Shiina

Reviews

Baian the Assassin, M.D.: Part 2 has received a mixed but generally positive reception from critics. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.7/10, with viewers praising Etsushi Toyokawa’s compelling portrayal of Baian and the movie’s authentic period setting. The historical atmosphere and well-choreographed action scenes were highlights noted by multiple reviewers. However, some critics on Rotten Tomatoes mention that while the film succeeds in character depth and stylistic presentation, its pacing can be uneven, particularly in the middle act, leading to occasional lulls that detract from overall engagement. Metacritic reviews suggest the film appeals especially to fans of the original series and period dramas, noting its blend of suspense and drama but cautioning that newcomers might find some plot elements convoluted. As one reviewer from The Japan Times put it, “Baian the Assassin, M.D.: Part 2 offers masterful performances wrapped in a moody Edo atmosphere, though the narrative occasionally struggles to maintain momentum.” Overall, the film is praised for its execution, star power, and atmospheric strength, even as some point to areas where narrative clarity could be improved.