The third film in Japan House London’s film season The maverick visionary: the cinematic world of Suzuki Seijun is Branded to Kill (1967), a highly unconventional gangster film.
Set in a world where professional assassins are ranked and constantly compete to become the ‘Number One’ assassin, the story follows Hanada Gorō, the third-ranked assassin. During one of his missions, Hanada eliminates both the Number Four and Number Two assassins, earning himself the position of Number Two. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Misako, a mysterious woman who claims that her dream is to die.
Branded to Kill delivers dazzling monochrome cinematography, stylish cars, nudity, relentless gunplay and a cool jazz-infused soundtrack. Suzuki also injected the film with a peculiar sense of absurdity. The assassins are distinguished not by flamboyant appearances but by subtle eccentricities in their behaviour. Most memorable is Hanada’s near-erotic fascination with the smell of freshly cooked rice rising from a rice cooker, a recurring motif that introduces moments of unexpected humour into an otherwise tense thriller.
The film is also notable for its experimental qualities, including its fragmented storytelling, sparse exposition, and boldly unconventional compositions and framing that often transcend physical space. Upon its release, these qualities proved controversial within Nikkatsu, Suzuki’s studio at the time. Growing dissatisfaction with his increasingly radical style ultimately led to his dismissal, and he spent much of the 1970s struggling to find opportunities as a filmmaker.
Today, however, Branded to Kill is widely regarded as one of Suzuki’s masterpieces. Its influence can be seen in the work of directors such as Jim Jarmusch, John Woo and Park Chan-wook, and it remains a touchstone for filmmakers drawn to the possibilities of style, experimentation, and cinematic reinvention.
The screenings are in Japanese with English subtitles. Duration: approx. 91 mins.
*Please note that this film is rated 18 due to violence and sexual content and is therefore not considered suitable for viewers under the age of 18.
For The maverick visionary: the cinematic world of Suzuki Seijun, Japan House London charges a small entry fee of £5 per person. This is to cover the increasing cost of hosting film screenings and to help Japan House London maintain the quality and variety of the films it presents.
Tickets for this event are non-refundable. Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.
Guests who are booked to attend the screening can also enjoy 10% off drinks at the Stand on their way in. Please note that the Stand is open until 20:00, Monday–Saturday, and until 18:00 on Sundays.
*Please note that filming and/or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
Main image: Branded to Kill (1967) ©Nikkatsu