There is no denying the appeal of “The Confidence Man JP” to its domestic audience. A successful TV series, in addition to three films, have all been undeniable hits, leading the box office and entering homes since 2018. The first of these big-screen showings, “The Confidence Man JP: The Movie” shows why, but also allowed room for future instalments, ones which subsequently came.
“The Confidence Man JP: The Movie” is screening as part of the Japan Foundation Touring Film Programme
At its core, there are a group of con-artists, both ambitious and reckless, yet at the same time somewhat grounded and tactful. They are Dako (Masami Nagasawa), Boku-chan (Masahiro Higashide), Richard (Fumiyo Kohinata), Igarashi (Shinya Kote), and newcomer Monako (Lisa Oda), who team up to try and take down “Ice Princess,” a Hong-Kong based triad boss and prominent corporate figure who possesses an item the gang are desperate to get their hands on.
Buoyed by a relentless use of humour and commitment to silliness, “The Confidence Man JP: The Movie” is something which is fast-paced, engaging, and inarguably exciting. It is certainly rather predictable, and the viewer may find themselves slightly bogged down by some of the purposefully in-your-face splashes of charisma, but if one is willing to let go of any expectation of a gritty crime caper, chances are you will have a good time.
Of course, part of this success does come down to the fact the movie does come with a pre-packaged, already established ensemble who are seamlessly investable. The chemistry is there from the outset, as is the backstory, making for viewing which is uncluttered and able to eschew the ides of fleshing out some of these characters any further.
Similarly, the acting is a strongpoint, even if it may appear as rather goofy and overblown to some. Nagasawa particularly shines as Dako, an eccentric woman who is full of vigour and con-artist skill. Her depiction is certainly wholehearted, with the experienced performer obviously enjoying herself, something which is definitely commendable.
Continuing, whilst the cinematography may be decent, with the cramped apartment space and bustling streets captured with a keen sense of restrictiveness, the overall worldscape is rather under-utilised, with certain locations never properly afforded their due diligence. With that being said, nobody can say the film does not look good.
Overall, “The Confidence Man JP: The Movie” is something which comes ready to entertain. Packed full of showdowns, fleeting moments of tension, and side-characters who are well developed, if you are willing to get past some of the flaws (predictability, juvenility), then there is no reason this will not be enjoyed.
