Tokyo Tribe

Tokyo Tribe, directed by Sion Sono and released in 2014, is a cinematic voyage unlike any other, straddling between the genres of action and musical. It stars Ryohei Suzuki, Young Dais, and Nana Seino, who bring energy and vibrancy to this psychedelic journey through a dystopian, pulsating Tokyo.

The film takes place in a chaotic, not-too-distant future - Tokyo has become a divided city, carved up into sectors according to rival gangs, collectively known as the 'tribes'. This stark division came into existence following a worldwide calamity. Each tribe dominates its territory, with inhabitants loyally bound due to shared feelings of family, honor, and code. However, despite this loyalty, a tense atmosphere of dare and challenge prevails between the tribes, which often leads to explosive confrontations.

Tokyo Tribe delivers a tale that is set in concrete, spray paint, graffiti, ramped-up cars, outlandishly clad gang members, and heavy beats. It's the world inhabited by the likes of the 'Musashino Saru,’ who strive to maintain peace despite the underlying tensions, and the 'Buppa Town’ gang, helmed by the tyrannical lord Buppa (Ryohei Suzuki) who has a gold-plated tank and a voracious appetite for power.

A pivotal character in this spectacle is Mera (Young Dais), Buppa´s right hand, a brutally efficient fighter with a personal vendetta against Musashino Saru’s Kai (Yôsuke Kubozuka). An unexpected event propels Mera and Kai into the spotlight, sparking a high-stakes battle that drags all Tokyo Tribes into a full-scale war. Meanwhile, the innocent and pure-hearted Sunmi (Nana Seino) becomes an integral link in the narrative, inadvertently becoming embroiled in the brewing gang war.

Tokyo Tribe is not your typical gangster film or musical. Here, the intricate dance steps and harmonious melodies co-exist with martial arts and bloody brawls. The dialogue becomes a syncopated rhythm, with characters often delivering their lines in rap, articulating profound emotions in catchy rhymes and beats, turning the cityscape into an urban opera. The film's use of music, particularly hip-hop, helps propel the narrative along, packing an emotional punch and allowing the characters to express themselves in a manner that traditional dialogue might not capture. The fusion of hip-hop and Eastern influences creates a diverse musical landscape that is both unique and engaging.

The movie is renowned for its surreal set designs, laden with a grimy, hyper-stylized aesthetic radiating with 'cool'. The cinematographer does an impressive job of capturing Tokyo as a city filled with neon lights, spray-painted walls, and towering skyscrapers - a blend of beauty and the chaotic energy that drives the narrative of the film. Coupled with action-packed sequences and a riot of colors, the movie tantalizes the senses leading to a unique cinematic experience.

Ryohei Suzuki delivers a grotesque yet memorable performance as the ruthless Buppa. Young Dais as Mera is impressive with his fierce demeanor and intense emotions. Nana Seino stands out in her role as a beacon of purity and goodness in a city ridden with chaos. The other characters also add color and personality to the movie, each representing the distinct characteristics of their respective tribes.

Sion Sono, the director, is well-known for his audacious and provocative ideas, and Tokyo Tribe is no exception. With an uncompromising vision of urban anarchy and a refreshing take on the musical genre, Sono is able to create a film that lingers in the memory of its viewers. Despite some mature themes and graphic content, the film keeps a sense of humor, touching upon societal issues while providing a visually striking narrative.

Finally, what Tokyo Tribe offers is not just a musical action film. It's a celluloid representation of an ode to unity, an exploration of urban sociology, and a stark commentary on the divisions within society. The grim cityscape jostling with crime isn’t merely a dystopian future; it's a reflection of the present-day socio-political undercurrents.

While Tokyo Tribe certainly won't be everyone's cup of tea, for those willing to take the plunge, the movie offers a thrilling ride. It stands as a testament to the audacious vision of its director, showcasing an unflinching view of a world where tribes collide and music serves as the language of defiance, resistance, and unity.