Into The Sun Reviews
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Take a look in the Movie review section of this forum, there are more reviews on Into The Sun.
Be aware that the screener is for promotional purposes only and must not be distributed any further. The quality of the movie doesn't even come close to a VHS-tape, so don't go looking for it.
Believe the posted reviews and buy the DVD (region 1 can be pre-ordered through this site for support).
Let's not advertise the screener and how it can be found!
Peace
Be aware that the screener is for promotional purposes only and must not be distributed any further. The quality of the movie doesn't even come close to a VHS-tape, so don't go looking for it.
Believe the posted reviews and buy the DVD (region 1 can be pre-ordered through this site for support).
Let's not advertise the screener and how it can be found!
Peace
Into the Sun
I live in the UK and by the sound of it the version I came across isn't this screener everyone is talking about as the one I found was pretty good quality, not absolutely DVD quality but as good as VHS if not better.
The film itself I really enjoyed, lots of people who've seen it are complaining of the lack of fisticuffs (which I do partially agree with) but the truly stupendous swordfights in the final half hour really make up for it.
Seagal speaks in Japanese a LOT in this movie and his fluency in it really gives the film an air of authenticity. Giving him a hapless partner gives off a few laughs too, Seagal loves Japanese themes and seems to be really enjoying himself in the movie because of it. He also "pulls" another Oriental chick - when I'm over 50 I need to be having that much luck with women!
No wirework, no dubbing, no doubles, just a great Seagal movie!
I live in the UK and by the sound of it the version I came across isn't this screener everyone is talking about as the one I found was pretty good quality, not absolutely DVD quality but as good as VHS if not better.
The film itself I really enjoyed, lots of people who've seen it are complaining of the lack of fisticuffs (which I do partially agree with) but the truly stupendous swordfights in the final half hour really make up for it.
Seagal speaks in Japanese a LOT in this movie and his fluency in it really gives the film an air of authenticity. Giving him a hapless partner gives off a few laughs too, Seagal loves Japanese themes and seems to be really enjoying himself in the movie because of it. He also "pulls" another Oriental chick - when I'm over 50 I need to be having that much luck with women!
No wirework, no dubbing, no doubles, just a great Seagal movie!
steve said:
You'll find that song as well as others performed throughout the movie on his music cd release - 'Songs From The Crystal Cave'.
Also, Filmjudge has a review up : http://www.filmjudge.ca/i/intothesun.htm
Thanks Craig
Thanks Craig, I did notice he sang a few others too but didn't spot them in the film itself - do you recall which scenes they appear in? I didn't know he sang over the film until I actually heard the song over the end credits, at which point my girlfriend and I started arguing over whether or not it was actually him singing! Needless to say when the song listings came up I won the bet. I know we previously heard him sing a little in Ticker but it wasn't until Into the Sun that I really heard his voice. Good stuff!
Thanks Craig, I did notice he sang a few others too but didn't spot them in the film itself - do you recall which scenes they appear in? I didn't know he sang over the film until I actually heard the song over the end credits, at which point my girlfriend and I started arguing over whether or not it was actually him singing! Needless to say when the song listings came up I won the bet. I know we previously heard him sing a little in Ticker but it wasn't until Into the Sun that I really heard his voice. Good stuff!
Clement3000
aka The Phoenix
I read your review on IMDB and it's great!!steve said:
I'm even more excitied now about this movie!!!
Into the Sun
No problem, happy to help! I just watched it again and after hearing his voice singing over the end credits, it's easier to spot the other tracks he sang - he sings the song for a club scene and a few others too. I'm still excited myself for the official release.
One minor concern I have is that preview copies often contain the full, uncut version of the film before the MPAA got their hands on them. I just hope the "R" version for the official release isn't trimmed in any way as some of the swordplay, particularly towards the end, is quite gruesome!
Steve
Clement3000 said:I read your review on IMDB and it's great!!
I'm even more excitied now about this movie!!!
No problem, happy to help! I just watched it again and after hearing his voice singing over the end credits, it's easier to spot the other tracks he sang - he sings the song for a club scene and a few others too. I'm still excited myself for the official release.
One minor concern I have is that preview copies often contain the full, uncut version of the film before the MPAA got their hands on them. I just hope the "R" version for the official release isn't trimmed in any way as some of the swordplay, particularly towards the end, is quite gruesome!
Steve
Clement3000
aka The Phoenix
Thanks again Steve. You just said my favorite word "gruesome", I hope indeed you are right and nothing is cut, that would be a shame. Can I ask one question? I will anywayssteve said:
Are we talking limbs being cut off gruesome? or blood going every witch direction greusome?? im not sure which one's better but both are equally exciting.
Clement3000
aka The Phoenix
http://qwipster.net/intothesun.htm
Into the Sun is a straight-to-video Steven Seagal (Exit Wounds, Out of Reach) vehicle, which for an actor as popular as Seagal has been over the years, would lead you to believe that it was a sub par endeavor, in which the studio felt they had no chance of recuperating their investment. I'm pleased to announce that it isn't -- in fact, it probably ranks as a respectable Seagal effort, although I will admit, that's not saying very much. There's nice locale work, punchy direction, acting that manages to keep from being embarrassing, and a relatively cohesive storyline. It's not really a good movie by any large stretch, but it's not that bad either, which for a Seagal film, might actually be the best a non-fan could ever hope for if forced to sit through it.
Seagal co-produced and co-wrote the screenplay, which should let you know that the movie plays to his strengths, unlike some of his other efforts that usually just stick him in the middle of a pedestrian plot. Here, he plays Travis Hunter, a CIA agent who has spent most of his life in Japan, who becomes embroiled in an investigation into the possible reasons behind the assassination of the governor of Tokyo. The CIA sends a green rookie, Agent Mac (Below, Blue Crush), to assist in the investigation, but he proves to be more of a distraction, not really knowledgeable about procedures or Japanese customs. What the duo uncovers soon leads them in the direction of the a deadly collaboration between a new Yakuza outfit and the Chinese Tong gang, which proves to be quite a hot spot for a couple of outsiders to poke around in.
Perhaps the weakest element of Into the Sun proves to be the story itself, with a very standard tale of feuding gangs and the typical revenge subplot you've come to expect from a Seagal vehicle. Plot developments all proceed according to their predetermined plans, basically just a means to piss off Seagal enough that he decides to take action in the most lethal ways possible.
Low expectations do actually help, as it is clear that this isn't a throwaway action movie just meant to cash in on Seagal's popularity. The production value is quite good, seemingly sparing no expense in generating the right look for the movie, whether it means bringing in helicopters and elephants, or just in the exhibition of high-tech computer graphics, it feels like a theatrical release. Also an asset is the energetic direction by mink, a former music video director, who employs a good sense of visual flair, but doesn't let his own technique get in the way of the characters and story, as so many others with an MTV mentality are prone to do.
The multilingual cast does lend an air of authenticity, although the verbal exchanges in two different languages are sometimes disconcerting. Seagal handles his Japanese parts well, although he still insists on whispering his lines instead of actually emoting. For a project co-conceived of by Seagal, it is also surprising that he doesn't dominate the screen time out of vanity, only choosing to appear when the situation calls for it. Still, he is still damn near invincible in this flick, as he probably does believe a pudgy guy with a sword could easily outmatch dozens of gun-toting Yakuza.
With all of the decent qualities, this is still not quite up to the stuff that merits a recommendation for anyone who isn't a die-hard Seagal nut. Although it is violent, and quite bloody (with an especially overzealous sound department who seem to relish the fluid noises of gushing blood), it is still not all that exciting. Into the Sun may be a decent flick for Seagal, but it is still a long way from gaining him mainstream acceptance. If you're a fan, watch it, but otherwise, it's just more action fodder from the king of blandly brutal b-movie revenge films.
©2005 Vince Leo
Into the Sun is a straight-to-video Steven Seagal (Exit Wounds, Out of Reach) vehicle, which for an actor as popular as Seagal has been over the years, would lead you to believe that it was a sub par endeavor, in which the studio felt they had no chance of recuperating their investment. I'm pleased to announce that it isn't -- in fact, it probably ranks as a respectable Seagal effort, although I will admit, that's not saying very much. There's nice locale work, punchy direction, acting that manages to keep from being embarrassing, and a relatively cohesive storyline. It's not really a good movie by any large stretch, but it's not that bad either, which for a Seagal film, might actually be the best a non-fan could ever hope for if forced to sit through it.
Seagal co-produced and co-wrote the screenplay, which should let you know that the movie plays to his strengths, unlike some of his other efforts that usually just stick him in the middle of a pedestrian plot. Here, he plays Travis Hunter, a CIA agent who has spent most of his life in Japan, who becomes embroiled in an investigation into the possible reasons behind the assassination of the governor of Tokyo. The CIA sends a green rookie, Agent Mac (Below, Blue Crush), to assist in the investigation, but he proves to be more of a distraction, not really knowledgeable about procedures or Japanese customs. What the duo uncovers soon leads them in the direction of the a deadly collaboration between a new Yakuza outfit and the Chinese Tong gang, which proves to be quite a hot spot for a couple of outsiders to poke around in.
Perhaps the weakest element of Into the Sun proves to be the story itself, with a very standard tale of feuding gangs and the typical revenge subplot you've come to expect from a Seagal vehicle. Plot developments all proceed according to their predetermined plans, basically just a means to piss off Seagal enough that he decides to take action in the most lethal ways possible.
Low expectations do actually help, as it is clear that this isn't a throwaway action movie just meant to cash in on Seagal's popularity. The production value is quite good, seemingly sparing no expense in generating the right look for the movie, whether it means bringing in helicopters and elephants, or just in the exhibition of high-tech computer graphics, it feels like a theatrical release. Also an asset is the energetic direction by mink, a former music video director, who employs a good sense of visual flair, but doesn't let his own technique get in the way of the characters and story, as so many others with an MTV mentality are prone to do.
The multilingual cast does lend an air of authenticity, although the verbal exchanges in two different languages are sometimes disconcerting. Seagal handles his Japanese parts well, although he still insists on whispering his lines instead of actually emoting. For a project co-conceived of by Seagal, it is also surprising that he doesn't dominate the screen time out of vanity, only choosing to appear when the situation calls for it. Still, he is still damn near invincible in this flick, as he probably does believe a pudgy guy with a sword could easily outmatch dozens of gun-toting Yakuza.
With all of the decent qualities, this is still not quite up to the stuff that merits a recommendation for anyone who isn't a die-hard Seagal nut. Although it is violent, and quite bloody (with an especially overzealous sound department who seem to relish the fluid noises of gushing blood), it is still not all that exciting. Into the Sun may be a decent flick for Seagal, but it is still a long way from gaining him mainstream acceptance. If you're a fan, watch it, but otherwise, it's just more action fodder from the king of blandly brutal b-movie revenge films.
©2005 Vince Leo
Clement3000
aka The Phoenix
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]http://www.reelfilm.com/intosun.htm[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] (February 6/05)[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Despite a budget of around $35 million and a decent supporting cast, Into the Sun is just as ineffective as the majority of Steven Seagal's last few flicks (ie Out for a Kill, The Foreigner, etc). The film is saddled with the same sort of convoluted storyline that's plagued all of his recent efforts, when all one really expects out of a Seagal movie is a lot of arm-breaking and twirling kicks.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun casts Seagal as Travis Hunter, an ex-CIA agent now living in Japan. After the governor of Tokyo is murdered in a daring public execution, Hunter is called back into action and saddled with a green partner (played by Matt Davis). In the course of his investigation, Hunter finds himself smack-dab in the middle of a deadly conflict between warring Yakuza factions.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Aside from a distinct lack of martial arts mayhem, Into the Sun's downfall can be attributed to a palpable sense of tedium; films about the Yakuza are a dime-a-dozen nowadays, which makes it especially difficult to craft an interesting movie around the subject. This is the sort of thing that's been done countless times before (ie in virtually every single Takashi Miike flick), making the need for creativity all-the-more important. But screenwriters Joe Halpin, Trevor Miller, and Seagal (!) instead infuse the film with a series of cliches that will undoubtedly leave most audiences rolling their eyes (something that's particularly true of the out-of-control Yakuza with dyed-blonde hair, a character that's essentially become a staple of these movies).[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun has been directed by mink (no, that's not a misprint), who - at the very least - does an effective job of bringing coherency to the few fight sequences (it sounds like a no-brainer, but there's been a real sense of disjointedness present in the majority of Seagal's last few films). But it quickly becomes apparent that this aspect of the film is an exception rather than the rule, as there's a current of sloppiness running through every other aspect of Into the Sun (including the fact that Hunter has conversations with Japanese characters in which he speaks English and they speak Japanese; huh?)[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]And while Seagal does utilize his trademarked break-a-guy's-arm-in-half move (technically, it was a wrist, but that's a minor quibble), the film just never manages to engage or thrill the audience. This is despite a third-act showdown that sees Hunter and two associates infiltrate a known Yakuza hangout, armed with nothing but samurai swords. About the only thing that can save Seagal's career at this point is a simple, back-the-basics sort of film (ie what Jean-Claude Van Damme has done with his latest effort, Wake of Death), because as it stands, his films seem to be getting progressively more and more tedious.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]*1/2 out of ****[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif] (February 6/05)[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Despite a budget of around $35 million and a decent supporting cast, Into the Sun is just as ineffective as the majority of Steven Seagal's last few flicks (ie Out for a Kill, The Foreigner, etc). The film is saddled with the same sort of convoluted storyline that's plagued all of his recent efforts, when all one really expects out of a Seagal movie is a lot of arm-breaking and twirling kicks.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun casts Seagal as Travis Hunter, an ex-CIA agent now living in Japan. After the governor of Tokyo is murdered in a daring public execution, Hunter is called back into action and saddled with a green partner (played by Matt Davis). In the course of his investigation, Hunter finds himself smack-dab in the middle of a deadly conflict between warring Yakuza factions.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Aside from a distinct lack of martial arts mayhem, Into the Sun's downfall can be attributed to a palpable sense of tedium; films about the Yakuza are a dime-a-dozen nowadays, which makes it especially difficult to craft an interesting movie around the subject. This is the sort of thing that's been done countless times before (ie in virtually every single Takashi Miike flick), making the need for creativity all-the-more important. But screenwriters Joe Halpin, Trevor Miller, and Seagal (!) instead infuse the film with a series of cliches that will undoubtedly leave most audiences rolling their eyes (something that's particularly true of the out-of-control Yakuza with dyed-blonde hair, a character that's essentially become a staple of these movies).[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]Into the Sun has been directed by mink (no, that's not a misprint), who - at the very least - does an effective job of bringing coherency to the few fight sequences (it sounds like a no-brainer, but there's been a real sense of disjointedness present in the majority of Seagal's last few films). But it quickly becomes apparent that this aspect of the film is an exception rather than the rule, as there's a current of sloppiness running through every other aspect of Into the Sun (including the fact that Hunter has conversations with Japanese characters in which he speaks English and they speak Japanese; huh?)[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]And while Seagal does utilize his trademarked break-a-guy's-arm-in-half move (technically, it was a wrist, but that's a minor quibble), the film just never manages to engage or thrill the audience. This is despite a third-act showdown that sees Hunter and two associates infiltrate a known Yakuza hangout, armed with nothing but samurai swords. About the only thing that can save Seagal's career at this point is a simple, back-the-basics sort of film (ie what Jean-Claude Van Damme has done with his latest effort, Wake of Death), because as it stands, his films seem to be getting progressively more and more tedious.[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]*1/2 out of ****[/font]
Attachments
SimonLustenberger
Well-Known Member
INTO THE SUN review
I found this article on qwipster.net. Enjoy:
Sincerely Simon
Into the Sun is a straight-to-video Steven Seagal (Exit Wounds, Out of Reach) vehicle, which for an actor as popular as Seagal has been over the years, would lead you to believe that it was a sub par endeavor, in which the studio felt they had no chance of recuperating their investment. I'm pleased to announce that it isn't -- in fact, it probably ranks as a respectable Seagal effort, although I will admit, that's not saying very much. There's nice locale work, punchy direction, acting that manages to keep from being embarrassing, and a relatively cohesive storyline. It's not really a good movie by any large stretch, but it's not that bad either, which for a Seagal film, might actually be the best a non-fan could ever hope for if forced to sit through it.
Seagal co-produced and co-wrote the screenplay, which should let you know that the movie plays to his strengths, unlike some of his other efforts that usually just stick him in the middle of a pedestrian plot. Here, he plays Travis Hunter, a CIA agent who has spent most of his life in Japan, who becomes embroiled in an investigation into the possible reasons behind the assassination of the governor of Tokyo. The CIA sends a green rookie, Agent Mac (Below, Blue Crush), to assist in the investigation, but he proves to be more of a distraction, not really knowledgeable about procedures or Japanese customs. What the duo uncovers soon leads them in the direction of the a deadly collaboration between a new Yakuza outfit and the Chinese Tong gang, which proves to be quite a hot spot for a couple of outsiders to poke around in.
Perhaps the weakest element of Into the Sun proves to be the story itself, with a very standard tale of feuding gangs and the typical revenge subplot you've come to expect from a Seagal vehicle. Plot developments all proceed according to their predetermined plans, basically just a means to piss off Seagal enough that he decides to take action in the most lethal ways possible.
Low expectations do actually help, as it is clear that this isn't a throwaway action movie just meant to cash in on Seagal's popularity. The production value is quite good, seemingly sparing no expense in generating the right look for the movie, whether it means bringing in helicopters and elephants, or just in the exhibition of high-tech computer graphics, it feels like a theatrical release. Also an asset is the energetic direction by mink, a former music video director, who employs a good sense of visual flair, but doesn't let his own technique get in the way of the characters and story, as so many others with an MTV mentality are prone to do.
The multilingual cast does lend an air of authenticity, although the verbal exchanges in two different languages are sometimes disconcerting. Seagal handles his Japanese parts well, although he still insists on whispering his lines instead of actually emoting. For a project co-conceived of by Seagal, it is also surprising that he doesn't dominate the screen time out of vanity, only choosing to appear when the situation calls for it. Still, he is still damn near invincible in this flick, as he probably does believe a pudgy guy with a sword could easily outmatch dozens of gun-toting Yakuza.
With all of the decent qualities, this is still not quite up to the stuff that merits a recommendation for anyone who isn't a die-hard Seagal nut. Although it is violent, and quite bloody (with an especially overzealous sound department who seem to relish the fluid noises of gushing blood), it is still not all that exciting. Into the Sun may be a decent flick for Seagal, but it is still a long way from gaining him mainstream acceptance. If you're a fan, watch it, but otherwise, it's just more action fodder from the king of blandly brutal b-movie revenge films.
I found this article on qwipster.net. Enjoy:
Sincerely Simon
Into the Sun is a straight-to-video Steven Seagal (Exit Wounds, Out of Reach) vehicle, which for an actor as popular as Seagal has been over the years, would lead you to believe that it was a sub par endeavor, in which the studio felt they had no chance of recuperating their investment. I'm pleased to announce that it isn't -- in fact, it probably ranks as a respectable Seagal effort, although I will admit, that's not saying very much. There's nice locale work, punchy direction, acting that manages to keep from being embarrassing, and a relatively cohesive storyline. It's not really a good movie by any large stretch, but it's not that bad either, which for a Seagal film, might actually be the best a non-fan could ever hope for if forced to sit through it.
Seagal co-produced and co-wrote the screenplay, which should let you know that the movie plays to his strengths, unlike some of his other efforts that usually just stick him in the middle of a pedestrian plot. Here, he plays Travis Hunter, a CIA agent who has spent most of his life in Japan, who becomes embroiled in an investigation into the possible reasons behind the assassination of the governor of Tokyo. The CIA sends a green rookie, Agent Mac (Below, Blue Crush), to assist in the investigation, but he proves to be more of a distraction, not really knowledgeable about procedures or Japanese customs. What the duo uncovers soon leads them in the direction of the a deadly collaboration between a new Yakuza outfit and the Chinese Tong gang, which proves to be quite a hot spot for a couple of outsiders to poke around in.
Perhaps the weakest element of Into the Sun proves to be the story itself, with a very standard tale of feuding gangs and the typical revenge subplot you've come to expect from a Seagal vehicle. Plot developments all proceed according to their predetermined plans, basically just a means to piss off Seagal enough that he decides to take action in the most lethal ways possible.
Low expectations do actually help, as it is clear that this isn't a throwaway action movie just meant to cash in on Seagal's popularity. The production value is quite good, seemingly sparing no expense in generating the right look for the movie, whether it means bringing in helicopters and elephants, or just in the exhibition of high-tech computer graphics, it feels like a theatrical release. Also an asset is the energetic direction by mink, a former music video director, who employs a good sense of visual flair, but doesn't let his own technique get in the way of the characters and story, as so many others with an MTV mentality are prone to do.
The multilingual cast does lend an air of authenticity, although the verbal exchanges in two different languages are sometimes disconcerting. Seagal handles his Japanese parts well, although he still insists on whispering his lines instead of actually emoting. For a project co-conceived of by Seagal, it is also surprising that he doesn't dominate the screen time out of vanity, only choosing to appear when the situation calls for it. Still, he is still damn near invincible in this flick, as he probably does believe a pudgy guy with a sword could easily outmatch dozens of gun-toting Yakuza.
With all of the decent qualities, this is still not quite up to the stuff that merits a recommendation for anyone who isn't a die-hard Seagal nut. Although it is violent, and quite bloody (with an especially overzealous sound department who seem to relish the fluid noises of gushing blood), it is still not all that exciting. Into the Sun may be a decent flick for Seagal, but it is still a long way from gaining him mainstream acceptance. If you're a fan, watch it, but otherwise, it's just more action fodder from the king of blandly brutal b-movie revenge films.
Littledragon
Above The Law
SimonLustenberger said:
That's not a bad review but I believe the critics are under rating Into The Sun. I have still not seen it but it looks so much better than Belly Of The Beast, Out For A Kill, Out Of Reach, and The Foreigner.
Gruesomeness - POSSIBLE SPOILERS!!
I have to admit, "gruesome" is one of my favourite words too! I do hope the version I saw is the same as the version which gets released as I wouldn't want to see a version which ends up being trimmed for violence (Under Siege 2, Out for Justice, On Deadly Ground and many more were all trimmed for their "R" ratings, though we'll probably never see the cut footage).
For anyone who hasn't yet seen it, DON'T READ ON as I'm going to mention a few of the gruesome highlights for Clement - a few limbs get gruesomely hacked off with blood-spurts, blood splatters over walls, people gets swords thrust through them, swords get bloodily slashed across bodies, a man gets a sword slammed into his head many times until blood spurts out, blood spurts across the room from sword hits and there's a brief wrist break. This is just off the top of my head, there are also many shootings, and a few decent hand-to-hand fight scenes. It's not quite on a par with Marked for Death violence-wise but the final 20 minutes in particular is well worth waiting for, with some good kiss-off lines to boot.
Clement3000 said:Thanks again Steve. You just said my favorite word "gruesome", I hope indeed you are right and nothing is cut, that would be a shame. Can I ask one question? I will anyways
I have to admit, "gruesome" is one of my favourite words too! I do hope the version I saw is the same as the version which gets released as I wouldn't want to see a version which ends up being trimmed for violence (Under Siege 2, Out for Justice, On Deadly Ground and many more were all trimmed for their "R" ratings, though we'll probably never see the cut footage).
For anyone who hasn't yet seen it, DON'T READ ON as I'm going to mention a few of the gruesome highlights for Clement - a few limbs get gruesomely hacked off with blood-spurts, blood splatters over walls, people gets swords thrust through them, swords get bloodily slashed across bodies, a man gets a sword slammed into his head many times until blood spurts out, blood spurts across the room from sword hits and there's a brief wrist break. This is just off the top of my head, there are also many shootings, and a few decent hand-to-hand fight scenes. It's not quite on a par with Marked for Death violence-wise but the final 20 minutes in particular is well worth waiting for, with some good kiss-off lines to boot.
rgray_aikido
New Member
Here is a review from www.dvdtalk.com
Reviews » DVD Video Reviews » Into the Sun
Into the Sun
Columbia/Tri-Star // R // $24.96 // February 15, 2005
Review by Ian Jane | posted February 10, 2005 |
M O V I E
*** out of 5
V I D E O
***1/2 out of 5
A U D I O
**** out of 5
E X T R A S
* out of 5
R E P L A Y
**1/2 out of 5
The Movie:
In his latest straight to video action movie extravaganza, aging ponytail man Steven Seagal plays Travis Hunter, a master martial artist who just happens to be of Japanese heritage and a man who has a strong understanding of the Yakuza and their mysterious, eccentric, and sinister ways.
When a Japanese federal official is assassinated, the C.I.A. figures that the Yakuza might play a part in the reason for his death, and they call in their man Travis to handle the job to head on over to Tokyo and sort it all out. Hunter won’t be alone on his mission though, thankfully the Feds have had the good sense to send a new recruit named Agent Mac (Matthew Davis of Legally Blonde) along with him to learn the ropes (and maybe keep him in line a little bit too).
When the two super cops start their investigation, it doesn’t take them long to find out that the Yakuza are undergoing some serious restructuring within their organization. One of the young upstarts has teamed up with a Chinese crime lord and together they’re making short work of the competition…
Into The Sun has a little more of a story to it than most of the recent Seagal action films. It also has a lot more of Seagal’s own music playing throughout it as well, which is, well, odd. Throw in the seemingly required ‘Steve sleeps with a hot young chick’ scene and a more or less disposable supporting cast that are there to either have their asses kicked or provide an outlet for some comic relief and you’ve got yourself a standard Seagal actioner.
While story wise it isn’t anything to write home about, the movie does deliver a couple of remarkable action set pieces that lend some credence to the rumor that maybe the man hasn’t lost his touch after all. Seagal is moving pretty fast and looking a lot better in this movie than his other recent efforts and the movie does benefit from that. A fantastic fight scene that takes place at a big shopping concourse ends too soon but does a nice job of setting up some of the action to come, and when the big finale finally hits the screen and Seagal pulls out his sword, well, let’s just say if you were ever a fan of his earlier films, you won’t be disappointed in the way this one finishes up.
Directed by the filmmaker known only as ‘Mink’ (he also directed Busta Rhymes and Xhibit in last years gangsta rap action fest Full Clip), the film runs at a nice, quick pace and if nothing else it always looks quite slick. The visuals are handled nicely, with some very fluid camera work and the color scheme is quite complimentary to the action.
The DVD
Video:
The picture is presented in a pretty good-looking 1.85.1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. There are some mild compression artifacts present during a couple of the darker scenes, as well as some mild edge enhancement but none of it is overly severe. Colors look pretty bold and robust without coming across as overcooked, and the flesh tones in the film remain life like without turning too pink or too orange. It isn’t a perfect transfer with the aforementioned authoring issues, but there isn’t any print damage worth complaining about (a few specks more than I’d expected from a new film, but still not too bad) and the grain that is noticeable is only of the very fine variety. The movie looks good.
Sound:
The English language Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound track does a great job of handling the action scenes for this film. It’s a pretty aggressive mix that differentiates and places the action sound effects across the soundstage as required by the way the film plays out. Plenty of gunshots, bone cracking, sword swinging and cheesy background music swells up behind (not overtop) the dialogue, which lets the talkier bits stay clean and easy to follow. This DVD contains and optional English language closed captioning feature as well.
Extras:
The only extras on this DVD are trailers for Dead Birds, Wake Of Death, Control, The Brotherhood Of War, Doing Hard Time and Out Of Reach. There are no other supplements on the disc and surprisingly enough the trailer for the feature attraction is conspicuously absent on this release.
Final Thoughts:
Into The Sun is a lot better than most of the recent Seagal outings – but that isn’t saying a whole heckuva lot. It’s plenty violent, and lots of fun in a mindless action movie kind of way, but don’t expect any serious tension or suspense, because it isn’t here. If you’re able to turn off your brain and just enjoy the ass kickings, then this one comes recommended but if you require a little more substance than that, well… rent it first (and what are you doing reading a review for a Steven Seagal movie in the first place?).
Reviews » DVD Video Reviews » Into the Sun
Into the Sun
Columbia/Tri-Star // R // $24.96 // February 15, 2005
Review by Ian Jane | posted February 10, 2005 |
M O V I E
*** out of 5
V I D E O
***1/2 out of 5
A U D I O
**** out of 5
E X T R A S
* out of 5
R E P L A Y
**1/2 out of 5
The Movie:
In his latest straight to video action movie extravaganza, aging ponytail man Steven Seagal plays Travis Hunter, a master martial artist who just happens to be of Japanese heritage and a man who has a strong understanding of the Yakuza and their mysterious, eccentric, and sinister ways.
When a Japanese federal official is assassinated, the C.I.A. figures that the Yakuza might play a part in the reason for his death, and they call in their man Travis to handle the job to head on over to Tokyo and sort it all out. Hunter won’t be alone on his mission though, thankfully the Feds have had the good sense to send a new recruit named Agent Mac (Matthew Davis of Legally Blonde) along with him to learn the ropes (and maybe keep him in line a little bit too).
When the two super cops start their investigation, it doesn’t take them long to find out that the Yakuza are undergoing some serious restructuring within their organization. One of the young upstarts has teamed up with a Chinese crime lord and together they’re making short work of the competition…
Into The Sun has a little more of a story to it than most of the recent Seagal action films. It also has a lot more of Seagal’s own music playing throughout it as well, which is, well, odd. Throw in the seemingly required ‘Steve sleeps with a hot young chick’ scene and a more or less disposable supporting cast that are there to either have their asses kicked or provide an outlet for some comic relief and you’ve got yourself a standard Seagal actioner.
While story wise it isn’t anything to write home about, the movie does deliver a couple of remarkable action set pieces that lend some credence to the rumor that maybe the man hasn’t lost his touch after all. Seagal is moving pretty fast and looking a lot better in this movie than his other recent efforts and the movie does benefit from that. A fantastic fight scene that takes place at a big shopping concourse ends too soon but does a nice job of setting up some of the action to come, and when the big finale finally hits the screen and Seagal pulls out his sword, well, let’s just say if you were ever a fan of his earlier films, you won’t be disappointed in the way this one finishes up.
Directed by the filmmaker known only as ‘Mink’ (he also directed Busta Rhymes and Xhibit in last years gangsta rap action fest Full Clip), the film runs at a nice, quick pace and if nothing else it always looks quite slick. The visuals are handled nicely, with some very fluid camera work and the color scheme is quite complimentary to the action.
The DVD
Video:
The picture is presented in a pretty good-looking 1.85.1 anamorphic widescreen transfer. There are some mild compression artifacts present during a couple of the darker scenes, as well as some mild edge enhancement but none of it is overly severe. Colors look pretty bold and robust without coming across as overcooked, and the flesh tones in the film remain life like without turning too pink or too orange. It isn’t a perfect transfer with the aforementioned authoring issues, but there isn’t any print damage worth complaining about (a few specks more than I’d expected from a new film, but still not too bad) and the grain that is noticeable is only of the very fine variety. The movie looks good.
Sound:
The English language Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound track does a great job of handling the action scenes for this film. It’s a pretty aggressive mix that differentiates and places the action sound effects across the soundstage as required by the way the film plays out. Plenty of gunshots, bone cracking, sword swinging and cheesy background music swells up behind (not overtop) the dialogue, which lets the talkier bits stay clean and easy to follow. This DVD contains and optional English language closed captioning feature as well.
Extras:
The only extras on this DVD are trailers for Dead Birds, Wake Of Death, Control, The Brotherhood Of War, Doing Hard Time and Out Of Reach. There are no other supplements on the disc and surprisingly enough the trailer for the feature attraction is conspicuously absent on this release.
Final Thoughts:
Into The Sun is a lot better than most of the recent Seagal outings – but that isn’t saying a whole heckuva lot. It’s plenty violent, and lots of fun in a mindless action movie kind of way, but don’t expect any serious tension or suspense, because it isn’t here. If you’re able to turn off your brain and just enjoy the ass kickings, then this one comes recommended but if you require a little more substance than that, well… rent it first (and what are you doing reading a review for a Steven Seagal movie in the first place?).
snooch
Member
Into The Sun Review
Here I Go My First Ever Review On The Best Website Ever Made.
Well It Starts Off Good And Reminicent Of Both Nico And Out For Justice And Then Some Impressive Credits Come Up Then After The Credits It Eventualy Starts To Go Downhill. The Fight Scenes Are Exellent But How Long You Have To Wait For Them Is Ridiculas. I Don't Know If It's His Hair Or What But He Looks Like His Put Just A Bit More Wheight Since Ofr. The Story Actually Has The Potential To Be A Very Good Seagal Movie But This Movie Is Just Boring It Is Better Than Out Of Reach And There Is Definatly More Action But Compared To Belly Of The Beast Fails On Action And Enjoyment I Think All My Good Friends Here Will Agree With Me
Thank You
Snooch 05 :
Here I Go My First Ever Review On The Best Website Ever Made.
Well It Starts Off Good And Reminicent Of Both Nico And Out For Justice And Then Some Impressive Credits Come Up Then After The Credits It Eventualy Starts To Go Downhill. The Fight Scenes Are Exellent But How Long You Have To Wait For Them Is Ridiculas. I Don't Know If It's His Hair Or What But He Looks Like His Put Just A Bit More Wheight Since Ofr. The Story Actually Has The Potential To Be A Very Good Seagal Movie But This Movie Is Just Boring It Is Better Than Out Of Reach And There Is Definatly More Action But Compared To Belly Of The Beast Fails On Action And Enjoyment I Think All My Good Friends Here Will Agree With Me
Thank You
Snooch 05 :
Clement3000
aka The Phoenix
WOW!!! THANKS STEVE!!! THIS IS THE BEST NEWS I''VE HEARD SO FAR ABOUT THIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for taking the time to post, I hope nothing is cut from this movie, I'm really looking forward to a new Seagal movie with mondo gruesomeness.steve said:
ExitWounds
I don't have rage.
I'll post my review Wednesday or so after I check this out.
The trailer looked interesting.
The trailer looked interesting.
Into the Sun
Haha mondo gruesomeness, good phrase! I hope so too, I'll be really disappointed if I shell out the cash for an official version which has been trimmed for violence (compared to the *cough cough* other version I found).
That said, they did leave lots of bloody bullet impacts in Belly of the Beast, the kind of gore they'd have cut out years ago so who knows. You won't be disappointed with the showdown in this one! Never since Out for Justice have the curtains been drawn so bloodily.
On a different note, I am longing for Seagal to curse again. Nobody but me seems to have noticed that he hasn't said the dreaded "F" word since The Glimmer Man. He said it in Out of Reach but it was said by his dubber so doesn't really count! He does say it in Into the Sun but in Japanese.
Clement3000 said:
Haha mondo gruesomeness, good phrase! I hope so too, I'll be really disappointed if I shell out the cash for an official version which has been trimmed for violence (compared to the *cough cough* other version I found).
That said, they did leave lots of bloody bullet impacts in Belly of the Beast, the kind of gore they'd have cut out years ago so who knows. You won't be disappointed with the showdown in this one! Never since Out for Justice have the curtains been drawn so bloodily.
On a different note, I am longing for Seagal to curse again. Nobody but me seems to have noticed that he hasn't said the dreaded "F" word since The Glimmer Man. He said it in Out of Reach but it was said by his dubber so doesn't really count! He does say it in Into the Sun but in Japanese.