This is one of the few Ridley Scott films I had still not seen. There’s huge Blade Runner influence here in the production design and lighting. Unfortunately, the story isn’t as compelling. There’s about 30 minutes that could have been cut here to make a more streamlined film and keep the pace moving a bit better.
What really works is once the characters get to Japan. The fish out of water storyline with Michael Douglas trying to navigate his way in a culture he has no respect for and doesn’t understand is interesting. Also, Douglas’ character is written very well, he has a lot of flaws that really save the movie in some ways, make it way more involving. I also loved the look of late 1980’s Japan with all of the neon and steam. Also no one shoots someone smoking better than Ridley Scott.
Many consider this to be Ridley Scott’s closest type of film to his brother Tony Scott’s style and I can see why. A lot of well shot action and gritty cop hyper-realism throughout. Overall, I liked it, especially Douglas’ performance but it’s probably not everyone’s cup of tea. Recommended for Ridley Scott fans.