The article discusses the relationship between the yakuza and Japanese cinema, particularly focusing on the gangster films of the 1960s produced by Toei studio. The author reflects on personal experiences as a film student in Tokyo during the 1970s, where he frequented all-night cinemas that showcased these films. The narratives often depicted a dichotomy between 'bad' yakuza, portrayed as capitalist mobsters, and 'good' yakuza, who adhered to traditional values and fought for honor.
The piece highlights how these films offered a nostalgic view of a Japan that contrasted sharply with the modern, urban landscape of Tokyo. The yakuza's portrayal in cinema has historical roots, with connections traced back to the 1920s when mob bosses acted in films, and later, some became stars. The article references Andrew Rankin's book, "Yakuza: A 400-Year History of the Japanese Underworld," which discusses the evolution of the yakuza's image and its ties to Japan's warrior culture.
Rankin notes that the yakuza have historically crafted an image based on honor and chivalry, influenced by both Chinese outlaw tales and Japan's own samurai traditions. The article also examines the yakuza's role in Japanese society, particularly during periods of political upheaval, when they have been enlisted by authorities to maintain order. The relationship between yakuza and the state is characterized by mutual benefit, with organized crime often overlapping with political interests.
As Japan modernized in the late 19th century, yakuza adapted by expanding into new businesses and maintaining a veneer of tradition through rituals and ceremonies. Despite their portrayal as protectors of the common man, the yakuza's actions often favored powerful political and business entities. The article concludes by emphasizing the complex and often contradictory nature of the yakuza's role in Japanese history and society.