Review: Miike Takashi is the harbinger of chaotic yet brilliant cinema. His cult followings range across the globe. His panache and eye for the extreme is his trademark. His legacy is one that is unmatched and still growing. Miike is genius.

If you agreed with my previous statement, then this book is for you. If you disagree with my previous statement, then this book is for you. Equally contributing information, both the die-hard Miike fans and the Miike-virgins have something to gain from this book. In the first chapter, a brief cliff notes of Miike's life prior to directing is shared. Then in the oncoming sections of the book, different themes of his films are discussed and each and practically every film (from "Shinjiku Triad Society" to "Deadly Outlaw: Rekka") are given a section, devoted to their splendor.
Even the most hardcore fans of Miike don't know some of the stuff this book provides. There's also a production diary taken from the set of "Ichi the Killer" and interviews conducted with the man himself. For all of those who MUST know every film Miike has participated in, the extensive filmography is anchors the book.

Have you ever gone on the internet to find some good publicity stills of Miike's films? Have you ever searched for behind the scene's shots of his films? Chances are, if you have, the results have been very lackluster. In this book, there is a wealth of production photos and on-set quick snaps. Each picture is so rich in detail that even some of the black and white ones are eye-catching.

I myself am a huge fan of Miike's films. From the first time I witnessed one of his films to the last time I shocked a friend with his movie, Miike has defined an era of my love for cinema. Each one of us probably has a Miike story. Mine's started with a curious film called "Dead or Alive." No other films by him has ever had the effect "Dead or Alive" had one me. With this book, it'll feel like the first time you've ever watched a Miike film. Sure, some you may downright loathe Miike and feel he's an overhyped product of fanboy-dom. But there's no mistaking Miike's left a dent in the cinematic world, and it's a pretty damn big dent.

Tom Mes of Midnight Eye has done more than just written a book about Miike, he's created the very Bible of Miike's life. The best part of the book is that after finishing it, you know you're already behind in Miike's career. By the time you read this paragraph, the man has probably finished seven more films. Get cracking kids, "Agitator: The Cinema of Miike Takashi" is a book you can't be without.

Score : 5 / 5