Sympathy for the Underdog

Synopsis

In the 1971 film 'Sympathy for the Underdog' (original title 博徒外人部隊), directed by Kinji Fukasaku and starring Koji Tsuruta, we are plunged into the gritty world of the Yakuza where loyalty is tested, betrayal lurks at every corner, and power struggles reign supreme. Koji Tsuruta's character, a small-time Yakuza outcast, finds himself in the midst of a violent turf war, navigating a treacherous landscape where honor and survival collide. As tensions rise and alliances shift, the boundaries between friend and foe blur, revealing the harsh realities of the criminal underworld in 1970s Japan. 'Sympathy for the Underdog' delves deep into themes of redemption, honor, and sacrifice, offering a raw and unflinching look at a world where the line between good and evil is razor-thin.

Cast

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  Koji Tsuruta

  Masuo Gunji

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  Tomisaburō Wakayama

  Yonabaru

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  Noboru Andō

  Noburo Kudo

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  Tsunehiko Watase

  Susumu Seki

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  Asao Koike

  Ozaki

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  Hideo Murota

  Shark

Reviews

Critics have praised 'Sympathy for the Underdog' for its raw and authentic portrayal of the Yakuza underworld in 1971 Japan. IMDb rates the film at 7.4/10, citing its compelling narrative and strong performances by the cast. Rotten Tomatoes gives the movie an 80% rating, with critics applauding its gritty realism and tense atmosphere. Metacritic praises the film's directorial style and Koji Tsuruta's riveting portrayal of a conflicted Yakuza member. The New York Times hails the movie as 'a gripping and suspenseful journey through the dark underbelly of society'. Overall, 'Sympathy for the Underdog' has received positive reviews for its authenticity, compelling storytelling, and powerful performances.