Gokusen: The Movie (2009)

Featured Audience Ratings

• Justin Y

  
  Stemming from a successful TV series in Japan, Toya Sato's <i>Gokusen: The Movie</i> is a comedic drama with a serious message to go along with it.<p>The character personalities and relationships are easy to pick up on, so watching and understanding the series… More
  Stemming from a successful TV series in Japan, Toya Sato's <i>Gokusen: The Movie</i> is a comedic drama with a serious message to go along with it.<p>The character personalities and relationships are easy to pick up on, so watching and understanding the series isn't a prerequisite. However, those familiar with the series will get a whole lot more out of this movie.</p><p>At just under 2 hours, this picture doesn't necessarily fly by. It is funny at times, but it also gets quite dramatic with its powerful message of friendship. Nevertheless, this film entertains from beginning to end.</p><p>This is one single movie, however there are 2 parts to this picture. The first involves an incident with current students, while the second revolves around a former student. Both have their share of action, which is decent, as well as dramatic endings.</p><p>Yukie Nakama is really something. She alone can carry this film from beginning to end and a lot of it has to do with her character's strong beliefs in friendship and having a strong bond with her students. She must also be in shape with all the running she does in the film. There are a lot of supporting characters with a bunch of cameos from her former students, which <i>Gokusen</i> followers will go ecstatic over. This, along with other antics, is where being a fan of the series really benefits the viewing experience.</p><p>When all is said and done, <i>Gokusen: The Movie</i> has enough going for it to make it a worth while watch. "Let's run into the sunset."</p>