Street of Violence (暴力の街, Bōryoku no machi),[a] also titled City of Violence and Street of Violence (The Pen Never Lies), is a 1950 Japanese crime and drama film directed by Satsuo Yamamoto.[2][3] Its story is based on a reportage published in the newspaper The Asahi Shimbun.[3]
Plot
In the city of Tōjō, news reporter Kita is first insulted by local boss Onishi and later threatened by gangsters after an article on corrupt businessmen, officials and authorities. Bureau chief Sagawa withdraws Kita for his and his family's protection and instead sends a group of colleagues to Tōjō to investigate. Aided by a group of organised young people and formerly intimidated citizens, who are weary of the ongoing corruption and violence, the reporters can finally expose the schemings. In the closing voice-over, the narrator cautions the audience to stay attentive to prevent a return of the depicted violence.
Street of Violence was produced by a production committee established especially for this film, which included the Japan Film Workers Union. Among the cast were actors under contract with the studios Toho, Shōchiku and Daiei, and independent film and theatre actors.[3] It was shot on location where the actual events, which became known as the "Tōjō incident", had taken place.[3][5]
Notes
^While mostly credited as Bōryoku no machi (暴力の街),[2][3][4] some sources give the original title as Pen itsuwarazu bōryoku no machi (ペン偽らず 暴力の街).[1][5]
^Anderson, Joseph L.; Richie, Donald (1959). The Japanese Film – Art & Industry. Rutland, Vermont and Tokyo: Charles E. Tuttle Company.
^ abJacoby, Alexander (2008). Critical Handbook of Japanese Film Directors: From the Silent Era to the Present Day. Berkeley: Stone Bridge Press. p. 350. ISBN978-1-933330-53-2.
