Nicky Larson

Hired help, City Hunter, stumbles into a generic sci-fi plot of super-soldier drugs and a secret organization.

I've read and watched City Hunter over the years. And I believe this is the third Live-Action adaptation of Tsukasa Hojo's Manga (with Jackie Chan in 1993 and a rather strange-but-enjoyable French version), only to finally be adapted by Japan around 30-years later!! Personally, any adaptation that properly incorporates the "giant mallet" without feeling forced, gets a pass in my books.

But beyond the average script, there are many likeable elements and an excellent execution. With a good cast that delivers charming performances and keeps a suitable tone throughout. I was expecting more silliness and over the top situations, but it knows how to behave itself. Specially the lead, who is portrayed as a VERY reliable person.. and unrealistically impressive, even! I quite liked Ryohei Suzuki, specially since he is what I'd physically imagine Saeba to be!

So, while the story is barely okay.. the Action more than makes up for it. And while I would have liked to see this as a series with a better plot but all the same parts, what it is is good enough to recommend.

I think you can ignore the bad reviews. If you liked other Netflix anime-to-film adaptations, this is one of the better ones in my opinion.

I have NOT seen the earlier anime nor read the comics. I probably have seen the Jackie Chan filmed version yet remember nothing from it. This is VERY GOOD Netflix television. The first act especially is non-stop crazy, stylish action in every way, plot, acting, shot-framing, action scenes and lots of girls.

I did like Parasite Gray and the Netflix filmed version of Avatar Air Bender. I could NOT get thru Netflix One Piece. I recognize the new One Piece has a ton of talent behind and on the screen.

When I put on my film critic hat, there is one big problem these anime-to-film adaptations struggle with. Their source material is from comics which came out 1985-1995. If nothing else, this means these shows have little to no relevance to the world of the 2020s, For example the cos-play (costume dress up) convention scene seems a bit dated; and yet, the expressions of the extras and how the scene plays out dramatically is wonderful--unless you already saw it in the comics and in the anime.

Netflix's City Hunter takes DNA from Jame Bond, comic books, anime, and other 20th century pop culture. Fortunately as in the best of Netflix's anime-to-film adaptations, the commitment behind and on the screen is 100%. In film dedication counts for much. As you undoubtedly expect, this is more well-produced, mindless, fun distraction.

Prepare yourself for a cinematic journey through the bustling streets of Tokyo with "City Hunter." This Japanese film not only takes us on a tour of the urban landscapes of the capital, but also uses the city as a character in its own right. From narrow alleyways to gleaming skyscrapers, Tokyo is more than just a backdrop; it's a crucial piece of the narrative, pulsating with life and energy in every scene.

But let's talk about the true shining star of this masterpiece: Suzuki Ryohei. This man is not just an actor; he's a force of nature on screen. His performance as the protagonist is nothing short of phenomenal. He manages to switch between hilarious moments and tense moments with enviable ease. And when it comes to action scenes, he simply shines. His movements are so fluid and precise that it's like watching a deadly ballet.

In summary, "City Hunter" is an explosion of action and comedy that takes us on a visual journey through Tokyo. With an exceptional performance by Suzuki Ryohei and a refreshing approach to the dynamics between genders, this film is a true gem of contemporary Japanese cinema.

City Hunter came out 40 years ago when my parents were young. When I told them that there is a new City Hunter movie just came out and they were really excited. We watched it together last night and man it did not disappoint! My family, 4 of us watched it together and we absolutely love it! It really perfectly restores the feeling of Japan's Bubble Economy era in the manga, the feeling of decadence at the end of the century, the fashion, the prosperity, the feasting, and the feeling of a modern metropolis where people are drunk and lavish. Ryohei Suzuki definitely fits the role and he did a perfect job. His fighting scenes are superb. His figure and muscles, his movements, and postures, switching guns and ammunition scenes, everything has perfectly restores from the manga. The only thing is, because it is only a 1 hour 40 minutes movie, there are a lot of background stories cannot be fitted into this movie. I just hope that there will be a City Hunter 2 coming. But even so, for younger generations who have not seen the manga or watch the anime or have not heard of City Hunter before, they still will not be disappoint by this movie.

You can tell Ryohei Suzuki is a diehard fan. This was absolutely amazing. Every part of the film feels like it had been made with care and love for the source material.

All main cast were excellent, with Suzuki being the obvious standout. He is Ryo Saeba, and he put in the work. His execution of the hand-to-hand combat and gunplay is phenomenal. He truly makes Ryo feel like the most formidable man you have ever seen.

The comedy, too, has been updated to modern times. Ryo is still as lecherous as ever, but he never puts his hands on anyone without their consent, which is a welcome change.

This film sets a new standard for adapting manga and anime right. I am very hopeful for a sequel.