Jakoman & Tetsu (1962) Blu-ray Review

Director Kinji Fukasaku changed the world of crime drama films with his Battles Without Honor or Humanity series. But long before this he would start his directing career with the action masterpiece Jakoman & Tetsu.

88 Films continually impresses with the Blu-ray releases from their 88 Asian Collection. Recently we have seen Lady with a Sword and Yakuza Wives. So now it is time for Toei Studio's 1964's Jakoman & Tetsu to receive the deluxe Blu-ray treatment.

Synopsis: Set in 1947 in a small coastal village among the majestic snowy landscapes of Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, Ken Takakura (the Abashiri Prison series, Ridley Scott's Black Rain) is Tetsu, the prodigal son who returns from the war to help out his father Kyubei with the family herring fishing business. His arrival coincides with that of a one-eyed miscreant named Jakoman, played by Tetsuro Tamba (Harakiri, You Only Live Twice), who bears a long-standing grudge against Kyubei and is intent on causing as much mayhem among the hordes of seasonal fishermen as possible.

When you think that director Kinji Fukasaku is best known for his yakuza films, a film about herring fishing is quite the departure. But his artful style is on full display here. The story is played out nicely, with great character development. Yes, this is not a yakuza film, but it is a wonderful part of the Fukasaku catalogue.

88 Films has transferred Jakoman and Tetsu to Blu-ray in 1080p and is presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic. The soundtrack is a Japanese LPCM 2.0 Mono audio track. The movie is subtitled in English.

This black and white picture really shines here in HD. 88 Films transfer brings such richness to the film. The picture is crisp and clean. There are no signs of damage to this print that I witnessed when screening it. But a wonderful transfer is not all that is included here. Take a look at the bonus features included on this Blu-ray.

* Audio Commentary by Tom Mes & Jasper Sharp
* Brand New filmed introduction by Mark Schilling
* Still gallery
* Booklet Essay by Chris D.
* Original and newly Commissioned Artwork by Sean Longmore

With a tremendous Blu-ray transfer, great audio commentary, gorgeous artwork, spectacularly written essay, 88 Films put together a great Blu-ray release here. It makes a great addition to the 88 Asian catalogue.

If you love 88 Films' 88 Asian Collection Blu-ray releases! Well, than you know you need this Blu-ray of 'Jakoman & Tetsu' in your home video library. Head over to MVD Shop or Amazon and order your copy today!