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Synopsis
In the 2019 crime drama Paradise Next, audiences are introduced to the sharp-witted Makino, who travels from Japan to Taipei with an agenda of his own. His encounter with Shima, a seemingly unassuming yakuza living a quiet life in the city, quickly escalates when Makino reveals he knows about a dark incident in Shima's past that has followed him to Taiwan. As the tension mounts, the duo embarks on a perilous journey to Hualien, where the shadows of their pasts converge and a mysterious adversary seeks Makino's life, forcing Shima to confront his own demons and loyalties.
The film delves into themes of identity, redemption, and the inescapable grip of one's past, all while balancing moments of levity and insight, particularly through Makino's wisecracks and Shima's stoic demeanor. Their contrasting personalities create a compelling dynamic, as they navigate the treacherous underbelly of crime and betrayal in a foreign land. Paradise Next offers a gritty yet introspective exploration of friendship forged in adversity, making it a captivating watch for those who appreciate character-driven narratives intertwined with the complexities of the criminal world.