The “Yakuza” (Like a Dragon) video game series, developed by Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and released by SEGA, has captured the hearts of players around the world with its gripping narratives, action-packed gameplay, and deep characters. The series has a strong focus on thrilling yakuza drama, taking most of its inspiration from classic Japanese cinema. In this article, we look at ten standout films that have left a lasting mark on the series, shaping its thematic elements, character development, and narrative style. Each of these films, ranging from the gritty realism of the yakuza genre to explorations of human morality and the criminal psyche, has contributed uniquely to the feel of the “Yakuza” video game series. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
10. Sympathy for the Underdog – Kinji Fukasaku (1971)
“Sympathy for the Underdog,” directed by Kinji Fukasaku, follows the story of Gunji, a seasoned yakuza boss, emerging from the shadows of a lengthy prison sentence. Upon his release, Gunji is confronted with the harsh reality that his once-powerful gang has been scattered and dissolved. Undeterred by this setback and fueled by a burning desire to regain his lost status, Gunji sets his sights on Okinawa, a location ripe for the establishment of a new criminal empire. However, his ambitious plans are met with fierce resistance from entrenched local gangs, and he grapples with the daunting task of adapting to an unfamiliar and hostile environment.
This film’s narrative paints a picture of the intense struggle for power and survival that permeates the criminal underworld. Fukasaku’s masterful direction brings to life the cutthroat world of yakuza politics, showcasing a relentless pursuit of dominance amid a landscape of ever-changing alliances and loyalties. The characters in “Sympathy for the Underdog” are expertly crafted, each navigating a treacherous world where allegiance and betrayal are as frequent as the rising and setting sun. This movie has been a significant influence on the “Yakuza” video game series, particularly through its raw and authentic portrayal of gang dynamics and the unyielding ambition of its main character, Gunji.
9. Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Final Episode – Kinji Fukasaku (1974)
In “Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Final Episode,” the climactic and final chapter of Kinji Fukasaku’s revolutionary series, the narrative arc centers on the life-altering journey of Shozo Hirono. Released in the year of 1974, the film captures Hirono’s turbulent reentry into society following his release from a prolonged and life-changing stint in prison. His reintegration involves his attempts to find his footing within a yakuza world that is not only rapidly evolving but also rife with internal strife and a constantly shifting web of alliances and rivalries. Hirono, a man deeply rooted in traditional yakuza values, finds himself in a profound struggle to preserve his sense of honor and principle in an underworld that seems to have abandoned the old codes and respect for tradition.
This film explores a range of deep-seated themes such as the fluid nature of honor, the sting of betrayal, and the significant transformation of yakuza organizations in a post-war Japan still finding its new identity. Fukasaku’s skilled direction brings to the forefront the stark tension existing between the age-old values that once defined the yakuza ethos and the new, more pragmatic approaches that are emerging within these criminal enterprises. The lasting influence of this film on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games is prominently displayed in its portrayal of complex character relationships and the dynamic evolution of the yakuza. The series draws heavily from the film’s exploration of the many conflicts and formidable challenges that its characters must navigate in an environment marked by relentless change and uncertainty.
8. Youth of the Beast – Seijun Suzuki (1963)
In “Youth of the Beast,” directed by Seijun Suzuki, the gripping narrative follows the central character, Joji Mizuno, a former police detective with a shadowy past. Mizuno, propelled by a complex set of motivations that blurs the lines between personal vendetta and justice, embarks on a perilous mission to infiltrate not one but two fiercely rival yakuza gangs in the heart of Tokyo. His approach to this infiltration is anything but conventional, as it entails a ruthless and unorthodox strategy that quickly creates a dense web of deception, double-crossing, and unexpected twists. As the story progresses, the film intensifies, with Mizuno’s true intentions and the increasingly complex consequences of his actions becoming deeply intertwined, leading to an explosive crescendo.
Suzuki’s film is celebrated not just for its narrative but for its stylish and unique approach to the yakuza genre, breaking away from traditional storytelling norms. The movie boldly challenges the conventional perceptions of loyalty and justice within the dark and often murky realms of the criminal underworld. This has had a profound influence on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) video game series, particularly visible in the series’ layered narrative complexity and the portrayal of protagonists who navigate a world that is morally ambiguous and complex. “Youth of the Beast” is a pioneer in setting the tone for a unique blend of gritty realism combined with a distinctive artistic flair, making it one of the best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
7. Battles Without Honor and Humanity – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
“Battles Without Honor and Humanity,” another entry directed by Kinji Fukasaku, stands as a cornerstone in the yakuza film genre. The story takes place in the post-war era of Hiroshima, a setting replete with the scars of conflict, where Shozo Hirono, a man transitioning from the life of a soldier to civilian existence, becomes involved in the brutal and unforgiving world of the yakuza. This film captures the ensuing chaos and rampant violence that engulfed the Japanese society in the aftermath of war, depicting a time when the traditional codes of honor and ethics within the yakuza culture began to crumble, giving way to a merciless struggle for power and dominance. Throughout this harrowing journey, Hirono navigates a precarious landscape filled with uncertain alliances and sudden betrayals, each twist and turn reflecting the volatile nature of his world.
Fukasaku’s film is widely acclaimed for its revolutionary portrayal of the yakuza genre, offering an unflinchingly raw and authentic glimpse into the criminal underworld. The movie’s profound influence extends to the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) video game series, where its impact is deeply felt in the narrative structure and thematic exploration, particularly in the aspects of loyalty and betrayal that form the crux of the series’ storytelling. The film’s portrayal of the stark realities faced by members of the yakuza, combined with its fast-paced and action-packed storyline, make it one of the best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
6. Tokyo Drifter – Seijun Suzuki (1966)
“Tokyo Drifter,” another entry directed by Seijun Suzuki, portrays the story of Tetsu, a dedicated yakuza enforcer, who is as renowned for his unwavering loyalty as he is for his iconic and distinctive blue suit. The plot takes a turn when Tetsu’s crime boss, in a bold move to embrace legitimacy, decides to disband their gang, propelling Tetsu into a nomadic lifestyle. As he wanders across the length Japan, he finds himself relentlessly pursued by rival gangs who perceive his solitary existence and formidable reputation as a significant threat to their own power. Throughout the film, the audience is treated to a vibrant and visually arresting portrayal of Tetsu’s odyssey set against the backdrop of a Japan that is rapidly embracing modernity and change.
Seijun Suzuki’s “Tokyo Drifter” is widely lauded for its unique visual style and groundbreaking approach to storytelling within the yakuza genre. The film has had a profound and enduring influence on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) video game series, particularly through its harmonious blend of high-octane action and distinctive stylistic elements. The Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games particularly draw inspiration from the film’s nuanced exploration of themes like loyalty and identity, which are set against the constantly evolving landscapes of the criminal underworld. “Tokyo Drifter’s” unique aesthetic, which combines traditional elements of yakuza cinema with a bold pop-art sensibility, finds a resonant echo in the visually vibrant and stylistically bold world of the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) series.
5. Branded to Kill – Seijun Suzuki (1967)
In “Branded to Kill,” yet another film directed by Seijun Suzuki, the narrative centers on the mysterious and complex life of Goro Hanada, a professional hitman who holds the distinguished, yet perilous, rank of third among Japan’s top assassins. Hanada’s structured life descends into a whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty after a critical mission unexpectedly goes wrong, transforming him from the hunter to the hunted in a deadly game of survival. Adding layers to his already complicated existence are his strange obsession with the distinct aroma of boiling rice and his entanglement with a enigmatic woman, each aspect further entrenching him in a web of danger and intrigue. The film is particularly renowned for its unique blend of surreal imagery and a darkly comedic tone, creating an atmosphere that is both unsettling and captivating.
“Branded to Kill” stands out due to its abstract narrative structure and visually striking style, setting it apart as a landmark piece in film history. The profound influence of this film on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games is unmistakably apparent in their liking for characters that exude eccentricity and storylines that are surreal and often bizarrely enchanting. The series skillfully incorporates elements from the film, particularly its existential themes and the deep, introspective struggle of the protagonist with his own identity and place in a world that constantly challenges his perceptions. Suzuki’s masterful fusion of dark humor and intense, action-packed sequences make it one of the best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
4. Drunken Angel – Akira Kurosawa (1948)
“Drunken Angel,” directed by Akira Kurosawa, portrays the complex and volatile relationship between an alcoholic doctor named Sanada, and Matsunaga, a brash and impulsive young yakuza member. Set during post-war Tokyo, a city grappling with its own wounds and reconstruction, the film explores Matsunaga’s personal battle with tuberculosis, a struggle that is compounded by the perilous demands and violent lifestyle inherent in the yakuza world. Despite grappling with his own demons and personal failings, Sanada finds himself increasingly invested in the welfare of Matsunaga, driven by a combination of professional duty and a growing sense of compassion. Their interactions, fraught with tension and mutual misunderstanding, serve as an interesting exploration of the complexities of their individual characters and the grim realities of the environment they inhabit.
This film’s exploration of characters who are deeply flawed yet undeniably compelling has had a strong influence on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games. Kurosawa’s skillful portrayal of the unlikely and turbulent alliance between the doctor and the gangster offers a compelling parallel to the game’s recurring themes of unexpected connections and the potential for redemption. The unfiltered realism and profound emotional depth that Kurosawa brings to the characters in “Drunken Angel” is often mirrored in the Yakuza games. The impact of “Drunken Angel” is apparent in the series’ emphasis on deep character development and its unflinching portrayal of the more somber and challenging aspects of life within the criminal underworld.
3. Pale Flower – Masahiro Shinoda (1964)
“Pale Flower,” directed by Masahiro Shinoda and released in the year of 1964, offers a deep dive into the life of Muraki, a yakuza member who steps back into freedom after serving time in prison. Upon his return, he finds himself drawn once again into the shadowy depths of the Tokyo underworld, a world teeming with high-stakes gambling and fierce rivalries. In this world, Muraki encounters Saeko, a mysterious and enigmatic woman whose presence in a gambling den captivates him instantly. Their complex and intense relationship begins to unfold, set against a world where obsession, the thrill of risk, and the relentless pull of the criminal lifestyle slowly closes in around them.
The profound influence of “Pale Flower” on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games is evident in its portrayal of the underworld’s seductive allure and the characters’ resignation to a life filled with danger and moral ambiguity. Shinoda’s film masterfully captures the captivating yet perilous domain of gambling and crime, central themes that resonate deeply within the game series. The intense dynamics of the relationship between Muraki and Saeko serve as a mirror to the complex interpersonal relationships often found within the Yakuza games, adding layers of narrative depth. “Pale Flower” significantly contributes to the series’ focus on exploring the psychological depths of its characters and the often murky moral landscape in which they operate, making it one of the best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
2. Sonatine – Takeshi Kitano (1993)
In “Sonatine,” a thought-provoking film directed by Takeshi Kitano, the story follows Murakawa, a seasoned and world-weary yakuza boss. Murakawa, who is growing increasingly disillusioned with the relentless and often unrewarding nature of the gangster lifestyle, finds himself dispatched by his superiors to Okinawa with the straightforward mission of mediating an escalating gang war. However, this assignment, seemingly routine in nature, takes an unforeseen turn as Murakawa and his loyal crew are suddenly ambushed, leading to an unexpected and reflective interlude. Stranded and isolated on a desolate beach, Murakawa is plunged into a period of deep introspection, where he ponders over the various facets of his life, contrasting moments of profound introspection with instances of whimsical, almost surreal humor, even as the shadow of danger looms ever closer.
Kitano’s masterful blend of sudden outbursts of violence, undercurrents of dark humor, and profound existential contemplation in “Sonatine” has had a significant influence on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) video game series. The film’s insightful exploration of the futility often found within the yakuza lifestyle, coupled with the complex and multi-dimensional portrayal of Murakawa, finds strong echoes in the fabric of the Yakuza games. Kitano’s combination of the harsh realities of gang politics with unexpected moments of surreal tranquility and humor is reflected in the dynamic tonal shifts that characterize the video games. “Sonatine’s” influence notably enhances the series’ portrayal of its characters, depicting them as individuals with rich inner lives and complex psyches, far removed from simplistic criminal stereotypes.
1. Hana-bi – Takeshi Kitano (1997)
“Hana-bi,” another entry directed Takeshi Kitano, tells the story of Nishi, a former detective whose life is overshadowed by a series of personal and professional tragedies. Nishi, grappling with the devastating terminal illness of his wife and burdened with a deep sense of guilt over a tragic incident that left a colleague severely injured, finds himself drawn into a life of crime as a means to manage and confront his overwhelming circumstances. The film combines Nishi’s foray into criminal activities with profoundly intimate and tender moments shared with his wife, creating a stark contrast between the brutality of his new world and the deeply moving scenes of love, care, and loss. This striking difference offers an emotional exploration of the complexities of the human condition.
Kitano’s “Hana-bi” has made a significant and lasting impact on the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games, particularly with its layered portrayal of Nishi, a protagonist who finds himself navigating the murky waters of the criminal world while simultaneously wrestling with intense and heart-wrenching personal challenges. The film’s narrative masterfully balances the raw, unflinching depiction of Nishi’s violent criminal undertakings with moments that reveal his compassionate and caring nature, a duality that resonates deeply within the characters of the game series. “Hana-bi” has significantly influenced the series in its portrayal of the complex interaction between criminality, moral dilemmas, and personal struggles. “Hana-bi” is often considered a classic of 90s Japanese cinema, and one of the best works by Takeshi Kitano, ensuring its place as one of the best films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games.
Summary
To summarise, here are ten films that have influenced the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) games:
- Sympathy for the Underdog – Kinji Fukasaku (1971)
- Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Final Episode – Kinji Fukasaku (1974)
- Youth of the Beast – Seijun Suzuki (1963)
- Battles Without Honor and Humanity – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
- Tokyo Drifter – Seijun Suzuki (1966)
- Branded to Kill – Seijun Suzuki (1967)
- Drunken Angel – Akira Kurosawa (1948)
- Pale Flower – Masahiro Shinoda (1964)
- Sonatine – Takeshi Kitano (1993)
- Hana-bi – Takeshi Kitano (1997)
