Demon City 鬼ゴロシ (2025)

Review Team

4/5

Demon City 鬼ゴロシ is a film that deftly intertwines themes of revenge and redemption within a captivating narrative. Directed by Seiji Tanaka, the film presents a haunting depiction of a city overrun by masked 'demons,' both literally and metaphorically. The protagonist, an ex-hitman framed for his fa ... Show more >> Demon City 鬼ゴロシ is a film that deftly intertwines themes of revenge and redemption within a captivating narrative. Directed by Seiji Tanaka, the film presents a haunting depiction of a city overrun by masked 'demons,' both literally and metaphorically. The protagonist, an ex-hitman framed for his family's murder, is portrayed with a depth that evokes empathy despite his violent past. The cinematography is striking, utilising shadows and stark contrasts to enhance the film's dark atmosphere. The pacing is deliberate, allowing moments of reflection amidst the chaos, which adds to the emotional weight of the protagonist's journey. While it may tread familiar ground in the revenge genre, its unique approach and strong performances elevate it above the average fare. Overall, Demon City 鬼ゴロシ is a worthwhile watch for those who appreciate a blend of action and emotional storytelling. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Demon City 鬼ゴロシ presents an intriguing premise but struggles to maintain momentum throughout its runtime. The story of an ex-hitman seeking vengeance in a city plagued by masked demons has all the makings of a gripping thriller. However, the execution feels somewhat uneven, with pacing issues that d ... Show more >> Demon City 鬼ゴロシ presents an intriguing premise but struggles to maintain momentum throughout its runtime. The story of an ex-hitman seeking vengeance in a city plagued by masked demons has all the makings of a gripping thriller. However, the execution feels somewhat uneven, with pacing issues that disrupt the flow. While the lead's performance is commendable, some supporting characters lack depth, making it hard to fully invest in their fates. The film's visuals are striking, and the action sequences are well choreographed, but they often overshadow the emotional core of the narrative. Fans of the genre might find enjoyment in its stylistic choices, yet those seeking a more cohesive story may be left wanting. In summary, Demon City 鬼ゴロシ is an entertaining watch but ultimately falls short of its ambitious goals. Show less