First Trailer for Takeshi Kitano’s Comedy ‘Broken Rage’ Two-Part Film

“If you work with us, we’ll let you off the hook.” Prime Video in Japan has unveiled a trailer for Broken Rage, an innovative film by Takeshi Kitano set to stream in the coming months. This film made its debut at the 2024 Venice Film Festival as a special selection, following Kitano’s three-hour feature Kubi from the previous year. Broken Rage centers on a hitman named Nezumi (portrayed by Beat Takeshi) who finds himself entangled in a deadly conflict between the police and the yakuza. However, the narrative takes an unexpected twist in the second half, transforming from a gritty crime-action thriller into a self-parodying comedy that humorously reinterprets the same storyline. This two-part film presents the first half as a dark, action-packed exploration of the criminal underworld, while the second half embraces a Three Stooges-style slapstick comedy that pokes fun at the clichés of yakuza thrillers and action films. Alongside Takeshi Kitano, the film features talents like Tadanobu Asano and Nao Ômori. I had the pleasure of viewing it in Venice last year, and it was an absolute riot—truly entertaining! The second half is a full-on comedic romp that showcases Takeshi-san’s incredible ability to deliver laughs while critiquing the genre.

Check out the official trailer (+ poster) for Takeshi Kitano’s comedy film Broken Rage, directly from YouTube:

The film, directed, written, and starring Takeshi Kitano, who remains a prominent figure in the film industry and continues to garner international acclaim, explores the theme of “comedy within a violent film.” This experimental project defies traditional filmmaking norms with its unconventional storytelling and unexpected developments, showcasing the unique vision of Kitano. Broken Rage is not only a testament to Kitano’s versatility but also a reflection of his extensive filmography, which includes notable works such as Violent Cop, Boiling Point, Getting Any?, Kikujiro, Brother, Dolls, Zatōichi, Achilles and the Tortoise, Outrage, Beyond Outrage, Outrage Coda, Ryuzo and the Seven Henchmen, and Kubi. Produced by Emiko Kitano and brought to life by Kitano Agency, this film premiered at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. Mark your calendars for February 13th, 2025, when Broken Rage will be available for streaming worldwide on Prime Video Japan. Are you ready to watch.