Henchmen

About This Movie

So, 'Henchmen' is quite the interesting flick from 1968. Set in the early Showa period, it dives into the gritty underbelly of Izu, Shizuoka, where three henchmen unite against a brutal gang. The whole vibe is steeped in male camaraderie, and you can really feel the weight of honor and chivalry among these yakuza representatives played by Tatsuo Umemiya, Tomisaburo Wakayama, and Koji Tsuruta. The pacing feels intentional, drawing you into their struggles without rushing, and the practical effects lend a rawness that’s refreshing. Performances are solid, each actor bringing a unique flair to their roles—it's a nice mix of action and character exploration that feels distinctive to its time.

Finding 'Henchmen' in good condition can be tricky, as it hasn't seen a wide release on modern formats. It often lurks in the shadows of yakuza cinema, which makes it a solid pick for collectors interested in the era's lesser-known titles. Its scarcity adds a layer of allure for those hunting down unique films from the late 60s. Keep an eye out for any limited pressings, as they do pop up occasionally, but be prepared—most copies are well-loved and show their age.