A patient, formally daring work — the cinematography lingers on empty rooms longer than most audiences will tolerate, but those who stay are rewarded with the most haunting final act of the year.
Gintama on Theater 2D: Kabukicho Shitennohen Arc
Kabukicho's delicate balance is maintained by four powerful figures known as the "Four Devas," who keep each other's influence in check. Among them is Otose, the "Empress" of the district. Despite having no real power herself, the sole reason she retains her position as one of the Four Devas and can contend with rival factions... is the presence of Kabukicho's strongest man—Sakata Gintoki—by her side. Then, a young woman approaches Gintoki, asking to become an apprentice at Yorozuya. Unbeknownst to him, she is Tsubaki Hirako, formerly of the Uekibachi Family and infamouslyknown as "Killer Hirako." Now, as Jirochou schemes to dominate Kabukicho, Otose becomes a target. Gintoki is given anultimatum: Join the Jirochou Family to save her, or refuse and watch Otose be attacked—while hehimself is marked for death.
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Critics & Reviews
3 featuredI walked in expecting another genre exercise and walked out feeling like I'd been eavesdropping on a confession. The lead performance is genuinely singular — a career-defining turn.
A few too many scenes feel borrowed from a better film, but the soundtrack and the production design carry the rest. Solid recommendation for fans of slow-burn European thrillers.
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