Ready to Shoot

Synopsis

"Ready to Shoot" (われに撃つ用意あり), a 1990 Japanese action-drama directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, stars Yoshio Harada in a gripping tale set against a backdrop of crime and conflicted loyalties. The film delves into the harsh realities of life as it follows characters entangled in a violent underworld, exploring themes of honor, desperation, and survival. Known for its intense atmosphere and thoughtful cinematic approach, the movie combines suspenseful storytelling with compelling performances, especially from Harada, whose portrayal brings depth to the gritty narrative. "Ready to Shoot" captures the complexity of human emotions amidst chaos, making it a significant piece in Japanese cinema of the era.

Cast

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  Yoshio Harada

  Katsuhiko Goda

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  Kaori Momoi

  Ritsuko

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  Akaji Maro

  Sakurada

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  Shirley Lu Hsiu Ling

  Yan Meiran

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  Renji Ishibashi

  Akikawa

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  Keizo Kanie

  Gunji

Reviews

Critical reception for "Ready to Shoot" has been mixed but generally leans toward appreciation for its style and performances, though some critiques point to pacing issues and narrative complexity. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.9/10 based on user reviews, indicating a moderate reception. Reviewers praise Yoshio Harada's powerful performance, highlighting his ability to convey conflicted emotions with subtlety and intensity. While some critics commend director Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s atmospheric direction and the film's moody cinematography, others note that the plot can be somewhat convoluted, which might challenge viewers seeking straightforward storytelling. Noted film platform Rotten Tomatoes does not provide an aggregated score due to limited reviews but some film enthusiasts and niche critics regard "Ready to Shoot" as an intriguing cult film that reflects the darker sides of human nature and Japanese society in the 1990s. Metacritic lacks formal scores for the film, but user discussions often acknowledge its artistic merits. Overall, "Ready to Shoot" is appreciated for its thematic depth and character-driven drama, though its appeal may be more niche than mainstream.