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Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival

Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival (1971)

Feb 13, 1971 1h 27m Action Drama Crime

The fourth film in the Kanto Street Peddlers series. The protagonist, played by Bunta Sugawara sides with female boss Yumiko Nogawa to fight evil Hiroshi Nawa, who at one point employs rebellious young hood Tsunehiko Watase and Kagawa. Tatsuo Umemiya also shows up as a cool, leather jacket gunman who gains Sugawara’s respect despite playing for the opposing team. What eventually keeps this film from being as good as the first is the loose script that doesn’t really tie all the fun stuff into a coherent package. Much is forgiven however when the last 20 minutes arrives with several visually striking set pieces (including one death scene stylized to the point of ridiculousness) and a terrific final massacre. This was Suzuki’s last contribution to the series; the fifth and final picture would be helmed by Takashi Harada.

Directed by Norifumi Suzuki

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Norifumi Suzuki
Writer
  • Norifumi Suzuki
  • Seiko Shimura

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Norifumi Suzuki brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1971, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2348 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 498 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1971, when this film was released:
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Gozu, which focuses more on action than character development, Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and Kanto Street Peddlers explore similar territory, Kanto Street Peddlers: Violent Fire Festival stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 13, 1971
  • Runtime: 1h 27m