Tokyo, 1934. When a brain aneurysm sidelines the leader of a clan that controls gambling in Tokyo, a successor must be named. While the choice of the ill leader is Shinjirô Nakai (Kôji Tsuruta), he declines, in favor of the more experienced Tetsuo Matsuda (Wakayama). There’s one problem…Matsuda is currently in jail and the heads of other families have no interest in waiting until he is released. They offer the job to Shinjirô Nakai (Kôji Tsuruta) but he has his own reasons for declining the job. Besides, he believes Matsuda deserves the role. Finally, as a compromise they choose they choose Kôhei Ishido (Hiroshi Nawa), a younger member who they believe will be easy to manipulate. Everything goes well until Matsuda is released from jail. Matsuda isn’t happy with the choice of leader. This eventually leads to a power struggle which results in the various factions gunning for Matsuda. Loyalties are tested and the action is fast and violent.
Told in a tight ninety-five minutes, Big Time Gambling Boss effectively examines the themes of loyalty and betrayal. while loyalty is a supposed cornerstone of Yazuka, the reality is different. Many voice loyalties but do whatever they want. As it turns out, Matsuda went to jail to protect his gang only to be betrayed by others. His anger is understandable, if not forgivable. In a film filled with bad guys, there is some sympathy for a guy like Matsuda. He did his time, remaining loyal until he had no other choice. Big Time Gambling Boss is a great film with an unexpected twist at the end.
A new label, Radiance Films is only releasing 2,000 Limited Edition copies of Big Time Gambling Boss on Blu-ray. If you’re a fan of Yuzuka, I would suggest ordering this quickly. After they run out, its likely that prices will grow exponentially on EBAY and other third-party sites.
Presented in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, Radiance films has delivered a very nice transfer. The image quality is strong throughout, offering impressive detail and solid definition. Blacks are inky and contrast is pleasing. Skin tones are natural and lifelike throughout. Grain is retained, giving the presentation a filmic appearance. There are no anomalies apparent. Fans should be pleased with this presentation.
The LPCM Mono track is available in Japanese with English subtitles. Clean and well balanced throughout, there is a solid amount of depth, given its age. Subtitles are easy to read and free of any errors. Like the video, fans should be pleased with this mix.
The following special features are available:
- Ninkyo 101 (HD, 14:35) is a video essay by Mark Schilling, author of The Yakuza Movie Book. He provides lots of information about the Yazuka genre, both pre-and post-World War II. As a Yuzuka a neophyte, I found it very informative.
- Serial Gambling (HD, 25:24) Chris D. (author of Gun and Sword: An Encylopedia of Japanese Gangster Films 1955-1980) discusses Toei Studios and their production of this and several other Yazuka films.
- Gallery: Features eleven press photos and poster for the Japanese release.
- Trailer (3:07)
- Reversible Sleeve: Featuring original and new commissioned artwork by maarko phntm.
- Limited Edition Booklet: Featuring new writing by author Stuart Galbraith IV, and critic Hayley Scanlon.
*Presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip
