Gates of Flesh (Blu-ray Review)

Gates of Flesh is a Japanese drama that has been made several times throughout history.  It was made in 1948, 1964, 1977, 1988 and a recent 2008 TV drama series.

88 Films have been amazing physical media fans with the quality of their Asian cinema Blu-ray releases. Here recently we have seen such films as The Amorous Woman of Tang Dynasty, The Lady Assassin, Hong Kong Hong Kong and Yakuza Wives. But now it's time for Gates of Flesh to take front stage.

Synopsis: In the shell-shocked, rubble-strewn wasteland of postwar Tokyo during the Allied Occupation, a group of prostitutes band to together to form a makeshift guild with the aim of pooling their resources to build a dancehall called Paradise. As their independent existence becomes threatened by the hawkish parade of gangsters, black marketeers and would-be pimps all looking for a cut from their flesh-peddling, the discovery of an unexploded bomb in the cavernous burned-out building where they ply their trade throws their dreams into further jeopardy.

After so many versions of this film director Hideo Gosha (Violent Streets, Yakuza Wives) brings a fresh vison eye to this story by Taijiro Tamura. And while most will say the best adaption would be the 1964 adaptation, this version is a very good version. Defiantly worth checking out if you are a fan of Japanese drama films. Just be aware the content is not for kids.

88 Films has transferred Gates of Flesh to Blu-ray in 1080p and it is presented in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is the original Japanese mono 2.0 with new English subtitles. Like most releases from 88 Film the transfer is a tremendous one and there are some awesome bonuses included on this release. Take a look at what is included.

* Original and newly commissioned artwork by Ilan Sheady
* Stills Gallery 
* Limited Edition Booklet 
* Limited Edition Individually numbered OBI Strip
* Audio Commentary by Amber T. and Jasper Sharp
* Brand new introduction by Earl Jackson
* Exclusive Interview with Toei Tattoo artist Seiji Mouri 
* Trailer 
* Teaser 

With the addition of a wonderful commentary, new introduction and interview and the absolutely amazing artwork (which by now most know I love). And the new OBI Strips are really nice addons. All these thing makes this release so much better. 

So, if you love Asian Cinema this 88 Films Blu-ray release of Gates of Flesh is a must add to your collection. Head over to MVD Shop or Amazon and order your copy today. You are going to love the quality of this physical media release.


Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) 88 Films Blu-ray of Gates of Flesh receives....