Shinya Tsukamoto's gritty crime film “Bullet Ballet” is a story of loneliness and despair wrapped up in chaos and violence within the confines of Tokyo. The movie's two leads, Goda and Chisato, played by Tsukamoto and Kirina Mano respectively, suffer depression following their own traumatic experiences and continuously contemplate suicide. The former lost his girlfriend to a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and the latter struggles from a troubled upbringing. Their paths correlate as they pursue extreme measures. Goda is driven to kill with a firearm, while Chisato seeks escapism and thrills in a street gang life. Eventually, the two form an unlikely bond. However, their gradual desire to live and grow from their pasts becomes tested by the threat of a vengeful crime boss. Yet, before an intense shootout ensues in the movie's climax, our two leads quietly wander the streets of Tokyo, contemplating the inevitable confrontation while comforting one another as they silently reflect on their lives.
For all the kinetic energy director Shinya Tsukamoto injects into his films, he balances cinematic outbursts with calmer moments that emphasize the characters' emotions. Here is no exception, and fittingly appropriate since “Bullet Ballet” is the director's transition into more dramatic features. This beautiful sequence conveys so much without a single line of dialogue, letting the striking cinematography and transcendent music score tell the story. Viewers can feel the inner anxiety and dread as Goda and Chisato prepare to have a dance with death, and there is no going back, all while the world around them keeps on turning. Furthermore, survival implies an opportunity for them to turn their misguided lives around.
Additionally, the support these two characters show for one another as they reflect on what brought them to this point adds dramatic layers to this scene. It all culminates with Chisato breaking down as she now fears for her life, and Goda is determined to survive but also protect his friend. In this scene, one of the film's most iconic images plays out with Goda and Chisato stretching their arms out, like birds spreading their wings, as the sunlight shines down upon them.
The entire scene is wonderful, with its atmospheric presentation and impactful drama. Shinya Tsukamoto and Kirina Mano's performances further enhance this sequence, making their silent emotional venture through Tokyo feel more raw. It's a very memorable calm before the storm, as the finale that follows is where the movie lives up to its title.
