The Threat is a gritty crime drama in the vein of Kurosawa's High and Low, set against the backdrop of a rapidly modernizing Japan that has left many of its citizens behind. Misawa (Rentarō Mikuni; Fugitive from the Past, Vengeance is Mine) appears to lead a charmed life, the very model of Japan's post-war economic miracle. His position as the account manager of a prestigious advertising agency is enough to pay the mortgage on the spacious modern house he shares with his wife (Masumi Harukawa, Intentions of Murder) and their two young boys, kitted out with all the latest mod-cons. Then one day, the fragility of his existence is revealed when two violent jail-breakers turn up on his doorstep seeking refuge and threatening to embroil Misawa in their criminal activities. Arrow Video presents this little-seen early masterpiece from Kinji Fukasaku, the future director of Battles without Honor and Humanity and Battle Royale, for the very first time outside of its own country in a stunning new transfer.
Bonus Materials
- High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation
- Original uncompressed mono audio
- Optional newly translated English subtitles
- Brand new audio commentary by Japanese film expert Tom Mes
- Warning Warning Danger Danger, a brand new 20-minute video appreciation by critic and Japanese film specialist Mark Schilling
- Original theatrical trailer
- Image gallery
- Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella
- Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring writing on the film by Hayley Scanlon
- Double-sided foldout poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella
