Eureka Entertainment is set to thrill fans of classic Japanese cinema with the release of “Prison Walls: Abashiri Prison I-III” on May 28. This eagerly awaited collection marks the debut of the first three films in the iconic Abashiri Prison series on Blu-ray, featuring brand new restorations. As a special treat for collectors, the initial print run of 2000 copies in each territory will be presented with an O-card slipcase, making it a must-have for enthusiasts of The Masters of Cinema Series.
Directed by the legendary Teruo Ishii, hailed as the “King of Cult,” and starring the revered Ken Takakura, known for his roles in genre-defining cinema like “The Bullet Train,” this series takes inspiration from Japan’s notorious Abashiri Prison. Built in the late 19th century to detain political prisoners, Abashiri Prison became the backdrop for a series of popular yakuza movies that captivated audiences from 1965 to 1972.
The Abashiri Prison Trilogy That Started It All
“Prison Walls: Abashiri Prison I-III” dives into the gritty world of Shinichi Tachibana (Ken Takakura), a yakuza imprisoned in Abashiri for his criminal actions. Throughout these three films, viewers follow Tachibana’s harrowing journey—from his initial incarceration and unintended involvement in a daring escape, to his turbulent reentry into society, and the inevitable clash with past associates and rivals. Each installment weaves a compelling narrative of loyalty, survival, and the quest for redemption against the unforgiving backdrop of Hokkaido’s frozen wilderness.
The Legacy of Abashiri Prison
Ken Takakura’s portrayal of Tachibana became a cornerstone of the series, reprising his role in seven subsequent films directed by Ishii, prior to the series’ reboot with “New Abashiri Prison” in 1968, which spawned eight more installments. “Prison Walls: Abashiri Prison I-III” not only introduces new audiences to the genesis of this prolific saga but also celebrates the collaborative genius of Ishii and Takakura.
Thanks to Toei’s meticulous restoration of the original film elements, this Blu-ray collection offers fans the chance to experience the drama, action, and emotional depth of the Abashiri Prison series with unparalleled visual and audio quality. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Japanese cinema or discovering these classics for the first time, “Prison Walls: Abashiri Prison I-III” promises to be an essential addition to your film library.
Get ready for May 28 and prepare to immerse yourself in the legendary tales of Abashiri Prison, brought to life like never before.
This release from The Masters of Cinema Series is not just a celebration of Japanese genre cinema but a tribute to the enduring legacy of two of its most iconic figures: Teruo Ishii and Ken Takakura.