Is Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2012)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2012, Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the TV Movie category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into This is the continuation and final part of Double Face SP, the Japanese remake of the highly successful 2002 Hong Kong film, Infernal Affairs. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of TV Movie are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "This is the continuation and final part of Double Face SP, the Japanese remake of the highly successful 2002 Hong Kong film, Infernal Affairs. This special focuses on Police Inspector Takayama Ryosuke (Kagawa Teruyuki) who had been secretly supplying police information to the organized crime group, the Oda-gumi. Once a young street thug, Takayama was taken under the wing of Oda Hironari (Kohinata Fumiyo), the leader of Oda-gumi. Dressed, fed, and educated, Takayama was instructed to become a police officer and work as a mole for the group. Now, he is tasked to get close to Suenaga Mari (Aoi Yu), a daughter of an influential politician."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Fumiyo Kohinata, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary TV Movie. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Eiichiro Hasumi is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 83 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of TV Movie, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2012 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Eiichiro Hasumi respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Fumiyo Kohinata or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Double Face: gisō keisatsu-hen is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.