The World of Shura

Synopsis

The World of Shura (修羅の世界) is a 2022 Japanese action drama directed by Koji Matoba. Set against a backdrop of intense underworld conflicts, the film delves into a gritty narrative of loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Central to the story is a relentless exploration of the human spirit as characters navigate the dangerous labyrinths of crime and honor. With powerful performances and a tense, atmospheric plot, the movie portrays the harsh realities of the yakuza world, while also highlighting complex emotional landscapes. The World of Shura masterfully combines intense action sequences with profound character development, making it a compelling watch for fans of crime dramas.

Cast

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  Koji Matoba

  Mouri Masahito

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  Tsunenori Aoki

  Yosuke Matsunami

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  Manabu Hamada

  Doumae

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  Hiroyuki Watanabe

  leader Engetsu

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  Kenji Matsuda

  Yaegashi Mitsuru

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  Kazuyoshi Ozawa

  wakagashira Doi

Reviews

The World of Shura has received a mix of positive and moderate reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 70% approval rating, with reviewers praising its raw portrayal of the yakuza underworld and the depth of its character arcs. For example, The Japan Times highlighted the "impressive performances and gritty realism" that make the film stand out within the genre. However, some critics pointed out pacing issues; Metacritic assigned it a score of 62, indicating generally favorable reviews but noting that some viewers might find the narrative at times uneven. IMDb users rate the film at 6.8/10, appreciating the action choreography and emotional stakes but mentioning that the story may feel familiar to those well-versed in yakuza cinema. Overall, while it doesn't reinvent the genre, The World of Shura is acknowledged for its strong sense of atmosphere and effective storytelling, making it a notable entry for audiences interested in Japanese crime dramas.