News On Japan

Documentary | Bosozoku the Motorcycle Gangs from Japan 暴走族

TOKYO, Oct 24 (TRNGL) - For decades the Japanese Bosozoku or 'Speed Tribes' have worn their kamikaze uniforms, fought rival gangs and roamed the nighttime streets with their loud custom motorcycles, all while embarrassing Japanese police with their wars on wheels. But now the authorities have turned the tables on them with more restrictive laws and new tactics.

'Sayonara Speed Tribes' is a documentary on the life of Hazuki, leader of the legendary SPECTER gang. As a retired bosozoku, having joined the yakuza (Japanese mafia), he became a mentor to less-enthusiastic bikers, far from the glory days as a bosozoku warrior. Hazuki became more and more disillusioned with his life as a gangster and used the tools he used best: his fists. By training kick-boxing he was able to prove that surviving his street fighting days is even more daunting than facing the gang he has turned his back on.

Directed by: Jamie Morris

Bōsōzoku (暴走族) is a Japanese youth subculture associated with motorcycles and souped-up cars. They are known worldwide for their pranks and for influencing one of the greatest masterpieces of Anime: "Akira"

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