The Execution Game (1979)
The third film in Murakawa’s trilogy is substantially different. Narumi is no longer the misogynistic brute, but a lot calmer, gentler and restrained. Still looking cool in leather and sunglasses though. There is a decent typical hitman plot, but the meat of this film is texture and late night atmosphere. Absolutely perfect for late night weekend watching. 70s jazz score, neon lit cityscapes at night, long stretches of mostly silence and sparse dialogue, and some incredible well made long takes of stylish gun shootouts.
Rating: 3.5