Like a Dragon
In the neon-lit chaos of Kamurocho, a night of violence and revenge unfolds in Like a Dragon (2007), the live-action adaptation of Sega’s legendary Yakuza video game series. Starring Kazuki Kitamura as Kazuma Kiryu, an ex-Yakuza fresh out of prison, the film follows his relentless quest to find his lost love, Sawamura Yumi (played by Takaoka Saki), while navigating a city on the brink of an all-out gang war. Meanwhile, the unpredictable and dangerous Goro Majima (Kishitani Goro) roams the streets, determined to challenge Kiryu in a fight to the death. As Kamurocho erupts in violence, a cast of compelling characters crosses paths—Matsushige Yutaka as the mysterious Makoto Date, a detective chasing a string of robberies; Claude Maki as Akira Nishikiyama, Kiryu’s childhood friend turned ruthless rival; and Gong Yoo as a foreign criminal caught in the city's underworld. As the night unfolds, a massive heist, a kidnapped child, and betrayals at every turn set the stage for an explosive climax. Director Takashi Miike brings his signature style to the film, blending brutal action with dark humor and stylish cinematography. The intense fight sequences, gripping storyline, and faithful game adaptation make Like a Dragon a must-watch for Yakuza fans and action lovers alike. Will Kiryu reclaim his past, or will the ghosts of Kamurocho consume him? Find out in this adrenaline-pumping gangster epic.
Details
🙂 Native Title: 龍が如く 劇場版 (Ryū ga Gotoku: Gekijōban)
🌎 Also Known As: Yakuza: Like a Dragon
🎭 Genres: Action, Crime, Drama
🏷 Tags: Based on Video Game, Yakuza, Gangster
✍ Screenwriters: Masashi Sogo
🎬 Directors: Takashi Miike
🇯🇵 Country: Japan
🎬 Release Date: March 3, 2007
📺 Original Network: – (Theatrical Release)
⏰ Duration: 110 minutes
🔞 Content Rating: Not Rated
Best Scenes
🔥 Kiryu vs. Majima Rooftop Battle – A high-energy fight that mirrors the intense rivalry from the game, blending brutal choreography with emotional weight.
🔥 Bank Heist Chaos – A gripping sequence featuring a chaotic robbery that sets multiple storylines in motion.
🔥 Kamurocho Night Chase – A visually stunning and action-packed pursuit through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo.
🔥 Final Showdown at the Dojo – The film’s climax delivers an epic, emotional conclusion with intense fight choreography.
🔥 Goro Majima’s Wild Entrance – Majima’s introduction scene is as flamboyant and unhinged as his character, instantly setting the tone for his role in the film.
Filming Locations
📍 Kabukicho, Tokyo – The real-life inspiration for Kamurocho, capturing the vibrant neon-lit streets of the Yakuza world.
📍 Shinjuku Back Alleys – Used for dark, gritty underground fights and dramatic chase scenes.
📍 Traditional Dojo Setting – The site of the film’s final battle, rich in symbolism and tension.
📍 High-Rise Rooftops – The thrilling rooftop battle between Kiryu and Majima offers breathtaking Tokyo cityscape views.
📍 Seedy Nightclubs and Bars – Many scenes unfold in smoky bars and hidden gambling dens, emphasizing the film’s noir-like aesthetic.
Visual Design and Costumes
🎭 Kiryu’s Iconic Gray Suit – Faithfully recreated from the game, reflecting his composed and honorable nature.
🎭 Majima’s Leopard Print Jacket – A signature look that highlights his chaotic and unpredictable personality.
🎭 Authentic Yakuza Tattoos – Detailed full-body ink on characters enhances the realism of the underworld setting.
🎭 Neon-Lit Cinematography – The film’s visuals pay homage to the video game’s distinct style, using vibrant colors and shadows to create a unique atmosphere.
🎭 Street-Fighter Aesthetics – The hand-to-hand combat and character designs bring a gritty, raw feel to the fights.
Themes and Messages
💡 Loyalty vs. Betrayal – The film explores the personal cost of loyalty within the Yakuza world.
💡 Honor in the Underworld – Despite being criminals, many characters live by a strict moral code, challenging traditional notions of good and evil.
💡 Redemption Arc – Kiryu’s journey is not just about survival but also about reclaiming his sense of justice.
💡 Fate and Brotherhood – Kiryu and Nishikiyama’s complex relationship adds emotional depth, showing how power can corrupt even the closest of friends.
💡 Violence as a Way of Life – The film does not shy away from the brutal reality of the Yakuza, where every action has deadly consequences.
Interesting Facts
🎬 Directed by Takashi Miike – Known for his extreme and stylish films, Miike brings his signature blend of action and dark humor.
🎬 Inspired by Yakuza (Ryū ga Gotoku) Video Game – The film closely follows the game’s plot and even features direct references.
🎬 Kazuki Kitamura’s Training – To perfect his portrayal of Kiryu, Kitamura underwent extensive martial arts training.
🎬 Cameos from Sega Developers – Several members of the original game team make brief appearances.
🎬 Gong Yoo’s Unexpected Role – Korean star Gong Yoo plays a foreigner caught in the criminal underworld, adding an international flair to the story.
Awards
Like a Dragon (2007) does not appear to have received any notable awards or nominations. The film is a Japanese crime drama directed by Takashi Miike, adapted from Sega’s popular video game series, Yakuza.
Real-Life Loves on Set
there are no reports indicating that any romantic relationships developed between the cast members of the Japanese film Like a Dragon (2007) during or after its production. The film’s focus remained on its adaptation of the popular video game series, and no off-screen romances among the actors have been documented.
Trailer
OST
Gallery
