When it comes to ninjas, many imagine shadow warriors in black suits with extraordinary skills. But Under Ninja flips the perspective, showing us a side of ninjas never talked about: the 'grassroots ninja' who are unemployed, living like modern NEETs. Directed by Yuichi Fukuda, known for hits like 'The Twilight Samurai' and 'The Fable', this film plunges us into a secret ninja world hidden in contemporary Japanese society through the eyes of Kuro (Kento Yamazaki), a low-ranking ninja who suddenly receives an important mission. The film seamlessly blends thrilling action with social satire comedy, making it one of the most unique and memorable ninja films of the year.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The story takes place in modern-day Japan. After World War II, the ninja organization was disbanded by GHQ, but in reality, over 200,000 ninjas still hide within Japanese society, divided into high-ranking ninjas handling top-secret national missions and grassroots ninjas who can't find work. One of them is Kuro Kumogakure (Kento Yamazaki), a young man in his prime living like an unemployed person with no goals, staying with his grandmother who was once a ninja. One day, he receives orders from the organization to carry out a secret mission involving 'Ninmaru', a high-ranking ninja unit sent to surveil a high school. Kuro must infiltrate the school as a student to uncover the truth and may have to clash with far more skilled high-ranking ninjas.
Acting and Characters
Kento Yamazaki as Kuro portrays a low-class ninja who seems lazy and sluggish but hides certain abilities in an interesting way. His performance makes the audience root for this seemingly useless character. Meanwhile, Minami Hamabe plays Akaya, a teacher hiding secrets about ninjas, adding mystery and softness to the story. Amane Okayama as Saruta, a stern and serious high-ranking ninja, creates tension in confrontations with Kuro. Supporting actors like Chihiro Yamamoto and Ryubi Miyase add color and humor, especially the child ninja character who appears innocent but hides ruthlessness.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Yuichi Fukuda maintains his signature comedic style, blending it with fast and sharp action. Fight scenes are designed with ninja tricks like disguise, stealth, and secret weapons, without losing realism in the modern world. The cinematography is beautiful, using modern tones that harmoniously blend with classic ninja aesthetics. The score by Yuki Hayashi (known for My Hero Academia) adds rhythm to action scenes, and the catchy soundtrack keeps the mood from becoming too tense.
Editorial Analysis
What makes Under Ninja stand out is its portrayal of ninjas in an 'uncool' light. Kuro represents the directionless youth, akin to a NEET ninja overlooked by society. The film satirizes the ninja hierarchy, reflecting Japan's social structure that oppresses the younger generation, and critiques the education system and societal expectations. It also touches on identity and finding meaning in a changing world. However, the pacing may lag in some parts, and some jokes might not resonate with all viewers, especially those deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Overall, it's a film that boldly challenges the image of ninjas and presents intriguing ideas.
Verdict
For those tired of traditional ninja films, 'Under Ninja' offers a fresh and bold answer. It's not just an action-comedy but also a social satire with insights on finding one's identity in a changing world. Suitable for Japanese film fans who enjoy something different and those looking for lighthearted yet meaningful entertainment.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Fresh concept: unemployed low-class ninja
- +Great blend of action and comedy
- +Strong performances and chemistry among cast
- +Satire of contemporary Japanese society
👎 Cons
- −Some pacing issues
- −Some jokes may be hard to grasp without Japanese context
- −Plot has some logical weaknesses
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FAQ
The film tells the story of ninjas whose organization was disbanded but still secretly exist, numbering 200,000, focusing on an unemployed low-class ninja who must undertake a mission involving high-ranking ninjas.
The film runs 123 minutes, or about 2 hours and 3 minutes.
Yes, it is adapted from the manga of the same name by Kengo Hanazawa, creator of the famous work 'I Am a Hero'.
The film contains fight scenes, some violence, and occasional inappropriate language. Parental discretion is advised.
