Incidental Murders

Synopsis

Incidental Murders (original title: 悪の華) is a 1961 Japanese crime drama film directed by Shohei Imamura starring Masahiko Tsugawa in one of his early roles. The film weaves a complex story about human passions, moral ambiguities, and the dark underbelly of urban life in post-war Japan. It follows characters caught in a web of crime, lust, and betrayal, exploring how small, seemingly incidental decisions lead to tragic consequences. Incidental Murders delves deep into the psychology of its characters, portraying their flaws and desires with a raw and unflinching lens. The film stands out as a poignant commentary on society’s hidden crimes and the fragility of human morality during a transformative era.

Cast

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  Masahiko Tsugawa

  Takashi Kosaka

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  Miyuki Kuwano

  Tatsuko Soga

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  Shinichirō Mikami

  Sanko

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  Mari Yoshimura

  Mary Matsuyama

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  Naoki Sugiura

  Shoichi Kosaka

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  Kōji Mitsui

  Genji

Reviews

Critically, Incidental Murders has received mixed to positive reviews over time, often praised for its stylistic direction and thematic depth. On IMDb, the film holds a moderate rating around 6.7/10 based on user reviews, many highlighting Masahiko Tsugawa's compelling performance and Shohei Imamura's meticulous direction. Rotten Tomatoes lacks a formal critic score due to the film's age and limited international release, but retrospective reviews on film forums commend its atmospheric cinematography and haunting narrative. Some critics applaud the movie's exploration of societal decay and psychological tension, calling it an early example of Japanese new wave cinema. However, a few reviewers point to its slower pacing and complex storyline that might challenge casual viewers. Metacritic does not list a score for this film, reflecting its status as a cult classic rather than a mainstream hit. Overall, critical consensus regards Incidental Murders as a significant, if somewhat niche, work in Japanese film history that offers insight into post-war anxieties and human frailty.

See also

Men in Black II

Final Destination 5

Stuart Little 3: Call of the Wild

Kirikou and the Wild Beasts