The film struggled to build tension, and Suzuki, the main character, didn't stand out. It almost felt like his role could have been left out, since he barely made an impact on the story. The characters mostly acted independently. Although the synopsis suggests their stories converge, the ending felt unnatural and forced, lacking a genuine sense that everything was meant to connect.

The live-action film "City Hunter," now streaming on Netflix, really gets what made Tsukasa Hojo's original manga special and gives it a fresh update. Ryōhei Suzuki does a great job showing both Ryo Saeba's goofy, flirtatious side and his impressive skills as a professional sweeper. Mochizuki Kaoru, played by Mochizuki Mochizuki, adds a new kind of charm. The movie tells the origin story in today's Shinjuku, making for exciting action that both longtime fans and newcomers can enjoy. It raises the bar for live-action Japanese film adaptations.