The Outsider Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Jared Leto silently stares his way into the Yakuza, probably for better health insurance.

🍿 The Outsider: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Imprisonment and Initial Yakuza Contact

In 1954 Osaka, Japan, Nick Lowell, an American ex-G.I., is imprisoned among the Yakuza. He stands out as the only non-Japanese inmate, recognizable by his lack of traditional Yakuza tattoos. During a prison conflict, Nick saves Kiyoshi, a Yakuza member, from execution by other inmates. This act of bravery initiates a bond between Nick and Kiyoshi, setting the stage for Nick’s eventual integration into the criminal underworld. Kiyoshi’s clan, the Shiromatsu, see Nick’s loyalty and value, foreshadowing his future involvement with them.

Release and Integration into the Yakuza

Following his act of loyalty, the Shiromatsu clan repays Nick’s debt by arranging for his release from prison. Now a free man in post-war Japan, Nick enters the world of the Yakuza, learning their code of honor, traditions, and violent practices. Nick quickly immerses himself in the Yakuza lifestyle. He navigates the dangerous landscape of organized crime, proving his worth through acts of violence and unwavering loyalty to Kiyoshi and the Shiromatsu clan.

Rising Through the Ranks and Conflict

As Nick proves his worth, he rises through the ranks of the Yakuza. He becomes entangled in the clan’s internal conflicts and power struggles with rival gangs. This brings him closer to the core members of the Shiromatsu family. The plot thickens as Nick develops a relationship with Kiyoshi’s sister, Miyu, further solidifying his connection to the clan, but also adding layers of complexity and potential conflict.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Nick Lowell (Jared Leto): A former American G.I. who finds himself immersed in the violent world of the Yakuza in post-WWII Japan.
• Kiyoshi (Tadanobu Asano): A high-ranking Yakuza member whose life is saved by Nick, leading to a bond of honor and obligation.
• Orochi (Kippei Shîna): A powerful figure within the Yakuza, representing tradition and the established order.
• Miyu (Shioli Kutsuna): Kiyoshi’s sister who develops a forbidden relationship with Nick, blurring the lines of loyalty and culture.
• Paulie Bowers (Emile Hirsch): An American associate tied to Nick’s past, representing the world he left behind.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Miyu: “Do you know what your tattoo means? Do you know what it means? It’s a fable. The koi fish who can swim up a waterfall becomes a dragon. It means you’re arrogant.” – Miyu interprets Nick’s tattoo, highlighting its symbolic meaning and suggesting a character trait.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $50 million
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $1,869

💥 The Outsider Reviews

Personal Review

I found ‘The Outsider’ to be a mixed bag. The setting of post-WWII Japan and the Yakuza underworld was undeniably captivating, and the cinematography was stunning. I will never forget the mood created by the dark and gritty visuals coupled with the traditional Japanese score, it made me feel like I was watching a classic Yakuza film. However, I wished the story delved deeper into Nick’s motivations and background. The lack of character development left me feeling somewhat detached from the protagonist, and I feel like they really missed a chance to show this incredible story.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Yakuza films”
  • “Viewers interested in crime dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate slow-burn narratives”
  • “Fans of Jared Leto”
  • “People interested in Japanese culture and history (post-WWII era)”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Male rear nudity”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Depiction of organized crime”

Professional Reviews

• IMDb: “The Outsider has a cool concept: an American in the Yakuza. It is stylish and quite atmospheric but pacing is poor, lacking conflict and character development. Ending up with no idea of Nick’s motivation or much of his backstory.
• IMDb: “Some call it whitewashing, I say it’s a great gangster film! It depicts honor, brotherhood, and love, amazing movie if you understand Japanese culture and the mindset of loyalty. Jared Leto did a superb job as a mysterious and dangerous American.
• IMDb: “An empty shell of a movie. Starts with promise but delivers nothing. The plot meanders with nothing happening from beginning to end. Character development is non-existent. Great style, but zero substance.

Audience Reactions

Atmospheric setting and stylized violence kept viewers engaged, despite flaws.: Viewers enjoyed the unique blend of American and Japanese crime thriller elements.

Jared Leto’s performance was polarizing, with some praising his stoicism and others criticizing his lack of emotion.: Many felt the film’s pacing was too slow and lacked a compelling narrative.

Overall Consensus: The Outsider is a visually appealing but narratively thin crime drama that may appeal to fans of Yakuza films, but its lack of character depth and slow pace may deter others.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Jared Leto grew out his hair and beard for most of 2016 to prepare for the role of Nick Lowell and have the appearance of an American prisoner of war.”
• “The opening shot features large letters across the screen saying, “Osaka, 1954″ while simultaneously showing a 1960 Chrysler Crown Imperial Le Baron.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Outsider?

The Outsider is available for streaming through various platforms. Check services like Netflix (where it was originally released), Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV for rental or purchase options. Availability may vary depending on your region. You may also be able to find it for sale on platforms like Google Play Movies or Vudu.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Outsider, you might like these similar films:

• The Yakuza (1974): Deals with similar themes of honor, loyalty, and cultural immersion within the Yakuza world, featuring a Westerner navigating the complex dynamics of Japanese organized crime.
• Brother (2000): Features a Yakuza member who flees to Los Angeles and forms an unexpected alliance, exploring themes of brotherhood and cultural clashes in a crime setting.
• Black Rain (1989): An American cop must work with the Japanese police to track down a Yakuza member who has escaped to the U.S., highlighting the cultural differences and challenges of cross-border crime-fighting.
• Giri/Haji (2019): A modern crime drama that explores similar themes of cultural conflict and family loyalty through the lens of a Japanese detective searching for his brother in London’s Yakuza scene.

🛒 The Outsider Related Products

• Yakuza Kiwami – PlayStation 4: Experience the complete Yakuza experience with this beautifully remastered version of the original game! Dive into the world of Japanese organized crime and uncover dark secrets.
• Japanese Tattoo Art: History, Meanings, and Designs: Explore the rich history and symbolism of Japanese tattoos, including those worn by the Yakuza, with detailed insights into the art and its cultural significance.
• The Yakuza Papers: Memoirs of a Japanese Gangster: A gritty and authentic account of life within the Yakuza, providing a firsthand look at the violence, loyalty, and traditions of this secretive world.
• Japanese Calligraphy Set – Complete Starter Kit: Learn the art of Japanese calligraphy and explore the aesthetic values reflected in the movie’s setting and cultural elements. This complete kit includes everything you need to get started.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Outsider features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Boparama” – performed by Frank Mizen

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The Outsiders – Thug Notes Summary & Analysis

Want a hilarious and insightful breakdown of ‘The Outsiders’ without the boring lecture? Thug Notes is here to drop some knowledge bombs on ya. I think this video is genius in how they explain complex themes in simple language!

the outsiders & the price of being tough

Ever wondered about the deeper meaning behind ‘The Outsiders’ and what it says about societal expectations? This video dives deep into the film’s themes of toughness and vulnerability, offering a fresh perspective. This analysis made me think about the movie in a whole new way!

The Outsiders Explained For Optimists! (A Comedic Commentary!)

Need a laugh while revisiting ‘The Outsiders’? This comedic commentary hilariously breaks down the movie’s plot and themes. This video really balances humor with insightful observations!

✨ Rate