Reborn is an action movie of high octane and explores the theme of redemption, loyalty and inner power. The novel focuses on the life of Toshiro Kuroda, an ex-black-ops soldier who lives a normal life with his adopted niece Sachi but his normal life is interrupted after his old rivals pay him a visit. The movie successfully exploits the archetypal story of a soldier who has to fight his demons, and the fact that Sachi is kidnapped adds emotional appeal to the unstoppable motivation of Toshiro to look after his loved ones. This intimate touch enriches the action sequences always on the verge of explosion and enables the viewer to identify with him despite his incredible abilities.
The character of Toshiro Kuroda is rendered in an extremely gritty and stoic fashion and is in keeping with the tone of the film. The fight scenes are dirty and well-planned, displaying the killing capabilities of Toshiro and his insatiable kill drive. The shooting is at a brisk pace with moments of introspection and moments of heart-thumping battle that leave the viewer on the edge of his or her seat. The film is shot in an ugly way, and the music is tense making people feel the emotional and physical fight of Toshiro. The aesthetic style of the movie focuses on the difference between the idyllic rural existence and the disorder caused by his previous life making the movie have a strong ambience.
The most memorable part of the film to me was the inner strength that was portrayed and the need to address the hardships of the past to save what is really important. The fight that Toshiro is experiencing is not only the physical fight but also the fight to restore his sense of purpose and love. The storyline is conventional in its redemption and revenge patterns but the heart of the story and the dramatic action scenes make the film outstanding. Re:Born ended up leaving me feeling exhilarated and in love with the notion that you have to unleash your inner beast at times to get on your feet and fight on behalf of what you believe in.
