Beyond Outrage

Following the same construct; clan politics and strategy leading to a finale that features a succession of hits, "Outrage Beyond", as its title card reads, greatly improves on its predecessor. It focuses on elements that were only touched on in the first; the old guard vs. the new batch, corrupt police, public reception of police etc., and this gives the film a more wholesome feel. Everything is more cohesive. Old scores are settled. Questions are answered. The dealings are easier to follow. The sides are clearer. Betrayals are noticeable. I love watching this world. It has rules, and they are in full use here. I'd love to see a third and final installment with Otomo wiping out the Sanno completely.

Technically, the film is similar to the first. Well shot, faultless acting, realism with the violence, and a low-key score. Though Kitano does not linger in the shot as much, which while only a small change, greatly improves flow.

A-