Shuji is an uncompromising young filmmaker at odds with Japanese society. One day he learns that his loan shark brother, who had helped to finance his films, has been executed by his own yakuza gang for failing to repay his debts.
Direction
Naderi's 34th film, his most personal Japanese work
Cinematography
Grainy 16mm that worships at altar of Cassavetes
Acting
Nishijima's thousand-yard stare of creative obsession
Director
Amir Naderi
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Naderi shot illegally in Yakuza-controlled locations after being denied permits; some 'extras' were real gangsters.
The title refers both to film editing and the yakuza ritual of finger-cutting—Shuji's art and his brother's punishment merge.
JP
