Dragnet Girl

About Dragnet Girl

Dragnet Girl is a 1933 Japanese silent film directed by Yasujiro Ozu. It was considered uncommon for its style in Ozu's career, marked by its gangster storyrefrain. The plot revolves around an ex-boxer turned Gang member, and his girlfriend, who decides to reform themselves after meeting an innocent young couple.

Making / Production

Yasujiro Ozu, a pre-war master of silent cinema, directed the film. It's an emblematic example of his silent era creations. Ozu's frequent collaborator, Kogo Noda, contributed to the screenplay.

Actors

• Kinuyo Tanaka as Tokiko, a typist and gangster's moll, delivers a brilliant performance as she grapples with her loyalty for her boyfriend and her newfound inspiration for change.
• Joji Oka as Joji, the ex-boxer turned gangster, brings a determined but sympathetic mien to his character.
• Sumiko Mizukubo as Kazuko, the innocent young woman, adds optimism and innocence to the narrative.
• Hideo Mitsui as Hiroshi, the innocent young man, serves as the catalyst for the change in the lead characters.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Due to its genre departure, Dragnet Girl is considered an anomaly in Yasujiro Ozu's filmography which is largely dominated by family dramas.
• The film shows Western influence on Japanese culture, showcasing western style boxing, jazz music, and of course gangster motifs.

Quotes

• "Once a thug, always a thug."
• "I've loved you through thick and thin."
• "No one is beyond redemption."

Music, Soundtrack

• The film, being a silent one, relies heavily on the musical score to express emotions and progression of the story. The soundtrack has an edgy jazz theme, resonating with the film's overall ambience.