Year: 1966
Runtime: 83 mins
Language: Japanese
Director: Seijun Suzuki
After yakuza boss Kurata dissolves his empire, rival kingpin Otsuka offers the position to Kurata’s top operative, Tetsuya “Phoenix Tetsu” Hondo. Tetsu refuses, so Otsuka hires the ruthless gun‑for‑hire Tatsuzo, the “Viper,” to kill him. As the Viper tracks Tetsu across the countryside, Tetsu suspects a former associate of betrayal.
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Read the complete plot breakdown of Tokyo Drifter (1966), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 11:13
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Visually striking crime tales about solitary figures navigating a world of betrayal.If you liked the cool, retro style and lone wolf protagonist of Tokyo Drifter, explore these movies. This section features similar stylish thrillers and crime films where visual flair, a tense mood, and themes of honor among thieves create a unique cinematic experience.
These narratives often center on a solitary, skilled individual—a hitman, a detective, a rogue agent—who is tested by the duplicity of their world. The plot is a vehicle for mood, driven by pursuits, standoffs, and the protagonist's internal code clashing with external forces of betrayal.
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Stories of skilled criminals chased for their refusal to compromise their code.For viewers who enjoyed Tokyo Drifter's story of a yakuza hitman targeted for his loyalty, this section collects similar films. Discover stories of principled fugitives, chased by former allies and rivals, where the central conflict is between survival and staying true to one's honor.
The narrative pattern is a chase thriller rooted in the criminal world. A protagonist's refusal to join a new order or betray an old one makes them a target, forcing them into a nomadic, defensive existence. The plot is a series of confrontations and narrow escapes, testing the protagonist's skills and resolve.
These films share a core premise: a protagonist whose exceptional skill is matched only by their stubborn honor, making them a threat to powerful enemies. The experience is defined by constant danger, themes of loyalty versus betrayal, and the loner status of the main character.
Don't stop at just watching — explore Tokyo Drifter in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Tokyo Drifter is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of Tokyo Drifter with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
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Discover movies like Tokyo Drifter that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
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