Rating summary

Movie		3.5
Video		4.0
Audio		4.0
Extras		1.0
Overall		3.5

Bodyguard Kiba 2 Blu-ray Movie Review

Bodyguard Kiba 2 is a martial arts action film. Based on the manga by Ikki Kajiwara and Kentarô Nakajô, Bodyguard Kiba 2 features the debut performance of Etsuko Shihomi. Distributed in Japan by the Toei Company, Bodyguard Kiba 2 was released in Japanese cinemas on October 13^th, 1973. Co-starring Tsunehiko Watase, Maki Mizuhara, Akiyoshi Fukae, Hideo Murota, Rokkô Toura, and Eiji Gô. An impressive role for Chiba.

Naoto Kiba (Shin'ichi Chiba) finds himself in a new predicament. Now in prison for his violent past, Kiba finds things have turned upside down for him. Even so, Kiba finds himself released in no time. After being released from prison, Kiba decides to work as a nightclub bodyguard. The position requires his strength and tenacity for the bodyguard role.

Working as a bodyguard might sound easy but Kiba finds the position harder than he ever expected. The employer is none other than the vile scum who sent him to prison in the first place. Will revenge be the answer?

An impressive performance by Chiba. Fans of the actor will enjoy the role and find it a good fit for the performer. The part had a lot of good action beats for Chiba and fans will certainly want to see all the spectacle of Bodyguard Kiba 2.

The production certainly has some noteworthy elements. The production design by Baku Fujita (Golgo 13, The Executioner) is impressive and there are some compelling aspects to it. The sense of scale is noteworthy and makes the film all the more engaging. These elements help to expand the scope. Outstanding.

The cinematography by Yoshikazu Yamazawa (Bullet Train, The Golden Bat) is a highlight of Bodyguard Kiba 2. The visual sensibility of the cinematography is something that enhanced the film and its artistic style. The cinematography certainly shines with some stylistic flourishes that add to the sense of fun the film offers viewers.

The score composed by Toshiaki Tsushima (Night Train, Yagyu Clan Conspiracy) provides a nice backdrop to the action. The action beats are certainly enhanced with some solid martial arts fun provided by the composer. A good scoring effort by Tsushima.

Written by Ryûzô Nakanishi (Godzilla 1985, The Return of Godzilla), Bodyguard Kiba 2 is a decent script with some fun storyline elements. The script has a good part for Chiba. The dialogue was compelling.

Directed by Ryûichi Takamori (Bodyguard Kiba, North Sea Chivalry), Bodyguard Kiba 2 might not be as well-regarded as some of the best Chiba films but it does have a lot of fun action beats to offer fans. These elements add up to something special. Bodyguard Kiba 2 is an engaging actioner and one that certainly has plenty of merit.

Bodyguard Kiba 2 Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

Released on Blu-ray from Shout Factory, Bodyguard Kiba 2 is presented in 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded high-definition in the theatrical aspect ratio of 2.35:1 widescreen. The high-definition presentation is worthwhile. The high-definition encode provides a solid presentation with good clarity and detail. An immersive presentation that is naturally filmic. The transfer is largely free from print deficiencies such as dirt, debris, and scratches. A solid presentation by Shout Factory.

Bodyguard Kiba 2 Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The release is presented in Japanese DTS-HD Master Audio mono (with English subtitles). The lossless audio on the release is satisfying. The lossless audio encode provides a more immersive soundstage. Dialogue is clear and easy to understand on the release. The soundtrack is well reproduced. A solid presentation.

Bodyguard Kiba 2 Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

There are no on disc supplements.

Bodyguard Kiba 2 Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Bodyguard Kiba 2 is entertaining and fast-paced filmmaking. The martial arts action makes it a fun film for fans of the genre to experience. Fans of Chiba won't want to miss the role. The Blu-ray release provides a strong high-definition presentation and lossless audio encoding. Recommended.