Abashiri bangaichi

This is a very nice Japanese classic movie. It depicts the life of some inmates serving in the notorious Abashiri prison. The hierarchy among inmates is the same as in Western culture, except that they continuously greet each other by nodding which is unique to Japanese culture.

Storytelling is so nice. Childhood memories of the lead character is shown with flashbacks. His attachment to his sick mother is so emotional. His sorrow is very well reflected to the viewer. Finally, the movie is blended with beautiful songs. They reminded me of Turkish ballads.

Abashiri Bangaichi was not the easiest movie to find. I found it kind of as an accident after I had given up on it. Abashiri Bangaichi is following a group of inmates in a a snow covered wilderness. it focuses mainly on Shinichi Tsukibana who is trying to get a parole.

The stories is about a group of prisoners and the interactions between themselves and the guards. It shows how the criminals get ranks after what crime they have done and how long sentences and how long they have been there.

Camera work was good. The actors did a very fine job too and the characters were interesting. So if you like prison movies this may be interesting for you if you come across it. I would also recommend if you are into old Japanese movies. It was certainly worth viewing.