AllMovie

The second volume of the Yakuza Papers isn't as hard-hitting as its predecessor but remains a memorable film for different reasons. The script pushes the character of Hirono to the sidelines for much of the film, but it wisely brings in characters that are interesting enough to keep the viewer's attention. The new storyline's appeal is sealed by strong performances from the story's new players: action star Sonny Chiba applies his trademark intensity to a memorably fiery villainous role as Otomo, Kinya Kitaoji is moving as the well-meaning foot soldier who gets trapped in the machinations of yakuza life, and Meiko Kaji makes the most of a handful of scenes as a war widow who discovers how cruel the yakuza's code of honor can be. Fukasaku directs the action with his usual fierce style but also manages to find some lyrical moments when dealing with the relationship between Kitaoji and Kaji. Thus, The Yakuza Papers 2: Deadly Fight in Hiroshima works both as a yakuza opus and a tragic love story, and this duality makes it compelling and unique companion piece to the original film.