Sister Street Fighter: Fifth Level Fist

Sister Street Fighter: Fifth Level Fist is a 1976 Japanese martial arts film written and directed by Kazuhiko Yamaguchi. The movie serves as a spiritual sequel to the 1974 film Sister Street Fighter. The film follows Kiku Nakakawa, the protagonist, played by Etsuko Shihomi, an enthusiastic karate practitioner and the only daughter of an old kimono shop owner in Kyoto. The story begins with Kiku and her friend Michi, played by Yumi Yoshimura, visiting a movie studio in Kyoto. Their presence at the studio is not coincidental; Michi has received information that her brother was involved with the film industry, and possibly, with a notorious crime syndicate. As Kiku and Michi explore the studio, they discover that it is being used to launder money and engage in clandestine activities, including drug trafficking and prostitution. Moved by Michi's plight to avenge her brother, Kiku decides to embark on a mission to uncover the truth behind her friend's brother's disappearance and presumed death. She infiltrates the crime syndicate by posing as a stunt performer in the film being shot at the studio. This guise allows her to gather intelligence and get close to the syndicate's leader, who is revealed to be Takeshi Nakano, played by Hiroshi Miyauchi. Kiku's determination to find clues about Michi's brother is evident in her actions as a film performer. She puts her life on the line, participating in high-octane stunts, showcasing her karate skills, and charming her co-stars. As she delves deeper into the world of the studio, she encounters a handsome and charming actor, Taro Matsumiya, played by Hiro Shimizu. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, but their characters are aware that it is merely an act for the cameras. However, things take a darker turn when Kiku discovers that the crime syndicate is connected to the disappearance of multiple individuals, including Michi's brother. As Kiku delves deeper, she realizes that she is trapped in a web of deceit, forced to continue her role as a stunt performer to gather evidence. Takeshi, the cunning leader, seems to be one step ahead of her at all times. As the story unfolds, the fight scenes become increasingly intense, showcasing Kiku's karate skills as she takes on various henchmen and thugs. These scenes are meticulously choreographed to highlight the beauty and effectiveness of karate. In the climactic final sequence, Kiku faces off against Takeshi and his cohorts in a no-holds-barred battle. In the end, Kiku, fueled by her unrelenting spirit and conviction, manages to expose the syndicate's dealings and clear her friend's brother's name. The film concludes with Kiku and Michi parting ways, each enriched by the experience of facing adversity and finding strength in their bond of friendship. Sister Street Fighter: Fifth Level Fist is an homage to the martial arts genre, combining action, drama, and romance. The film offers a thrilling account of Kiku's battle against the crime syndicate, which leaves the audience inspired by her unwavering dedication to justice. The movie also explores themes of identity, with Kiku oscillating between her on-screen and off-screen personas as she struggles to uncover the truth about her friend's brother.