Takashi Miike's ICHI THE KILLER may not be "horror" in the strict sense of the word, but most of us horror fans hold this film, as well as many other Takashi Miike flicks, in high-regard as action-crime movies that serve up so much insanity and over-the-top gore that we revisit them at least once a year. (RIKI-OH: THE STORY OF RICKY fits into this category as well.)
As far as ICHI THE KILLER goes, we will all soon have a new version to watch during those annual viewings as Variety is reporting Emperor Motion Picture has picked up rights to the splatter flick and is set to restore and revive the film.
EMP’s head of international sales May Yip had this to say about the restoration:
“Miike is prolific, but ‘Ichi the Killer’ stands out as something special. Unfortunately, the materials were in very poor condition as it was shot in Beta and only later converted to 35mm. So, given that there was enduring interest and licenses expiring, we took the decision to restore it. The result will be better, even gorier.”
Better you say? Gorier you say? Holy absolute hell am I down for checking out this restoration as soon as it hits.
ICHI THE KILLER synopsis via The Arrow:
Psychotic and emotionally pathetic Ichi (Omori), is being manipulated to slaughter Yakuza mob members. Armed with his superhero outfit and his razor laced boot, he’s cleaning shop like nobody’s business. When Mafioso and S&M freak Kakihara’s (Asano) boss disappears, Ichi is the prime suspect. Kakihara, his fly leather coat, and his henchmen go on the hunt for the aloof fruitcake…blood flies, guts tumble and we vomit with joy!
ICHI THE KILLER was directed by Takashi Miike and stars Tadanobu Asano and Nao Omori.
How excited are YOU for a restored, "better and gorier" version of ICHI THE KILLER? Let us know what you think on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Until then you can buy the flick on Blu-ray RIGHT HERE.