Kinji Fukasaku

A master of action and crime cinema, Kinji Fukasaku was born in 1930 in Mito, Japan, and was an active filmmaker from the 1960s until his death in 2003. Known predominantly for his Yakuza films, Fukasaku's most famous works include "Battles Without Honor and Humanity" and "Battle Royale," which won the Japan Academy Prize for Picture of the Year. His distinctive style is often characterized by its kinetic energy, gritty realism, and unorthodox camera techniques, enhancing the high-stakes drama of his narratives. As a filmmaker, Fukasaku consistently pushed the boundaries, creating a body of work that remains a testament to his fearless vision and uncompromising craftsmanship.