Crying Freeman
Plot
In the visually stunning and action-packed film "Crying Freeman," a mysterious assassin known as Yoichi "Freeman" Takahara (voiced by Kiyoshi Nakaya) works for a secret Chinese organization, taking on high-stakes missions with deadly precision. However, Freeman's unique characteristic sets him apart from other killers: every time he takes out his target, he sheds tears of regret. The film opens with Freeman executing three Yakuza gangsters with swift and ruthless efficiency, caught in the act by a beautiful artist named Nina (Debi Derryberry). Nina is not only taken aback by Freeman's brutal skills but also captivated by the assassin's enigmatic persona. As their paths continue to cross, Nina finds herself drawn to Freeman, despite his dark and troubled past. As the story unfolds, Freeman becomes embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and deception, involving corrupt government officials, ruthless crime lords, and treacherous gangsters. With his skills pushed to the limit, Freeman must confront his own mortality and the true nature of his existence as an assassin. Throughout the film, Freeman's emotional turmoil is palpable, as he struggles to reconcile his dual identities as a deadly killer and a compassionate human being. His tears of regret become a poignant symbol of his inner conflict, highlighting the moral ambiguities of his profession. Visually, "Crying Freeman" is a treat, featuring lush animation, vibrant colors, and dynamic action sequences that showcase Freeman's incredible fighting skills. The film's blend of Japanese and Chinese cultural influences adds depth and richness to its narrative, making it a unique and captivating ride. Ultimately, "Crying Freeman" is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil. With its stunning animation, gripping storyline, and memorable characters, this film is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences.
Reviews
Bella
Mark Dacascos was such a handsome dude when he was younger! The crazy thing is, he was this good-looking when he filmed this movie and fell in love with the female lead at first sight. They got married and have had a great relationship for over two decades. That's really rare to find in Hollywood! I recently saw a Scott Adkins interview with him, and you can tell from the way he speaks that he has a great character. Plus, he's getting funnier as he gets older!
Nina
Even a killing machine is helpless against love's allure.
Rosemary
The sniper rifle isn't for shooting people; it's for using like an RPG to blow up cars and buildings, creating a firework display at the murder scene :) The secret technique of the anti-Qing, Ming-restoring Triads is creating Qing dynasty zombies, and occasionally kidnapping Japanese devils for brainwashing and training, but their main business is making soy sauce in the Shanghai sewers until the Japanese Yakuza come to help us with hygiene supervision. We've also found the ancestor of the "crotch-grenade" meme, congratulations! 24 years later, Crying Freeman has become a John Wick fan… A collection of various slow-motion posing with style but no substance, quite hilarious.
Zachary
Here's my take, comparing it to the anime version I've seen before. The film actually does a solid job of recreating the early parts of the story, hitting those iconic scenes. The first 20 minutes even amplify that intense atmosphere. However, despite the thoughtful cinematography and set design, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that the source material's mystical nature makes adaptation inherently awkward. But I have to say, the female lead is stunning, a true embodiment of that era.
Camille
Adapted from the manga by Ryoichi Ikegami.
Brielle
Crying Freeman is a gruesome yet poetic tale of a complex assassin, haunted by his own morality. The film's striking visuals and atmospheric soundtrack create a captivating experience. As the assassin's story intertwines with the beautiful artist, a deeper exploration of the human condition unfolds. With its blend of action and emotional depth, Crying Freeman is a dark and thought-provoking thriller that lingers long after the credits roll. Beautifully crafted, it explores the blurred lines between good and evil.
