THE AUTUMN RAIN: Crime in Japan  (continued)

The yakuza, far from being unruly mobs of gangsters, follow a strict code of honour and ethics, each crime "family" passes on a set of traditional values to its "children." They have close ties to far-right political groups who favour repealing the Constitution and re-arming Japan, and they often come into violent conflict with left-wing extremists such as the Red Army terrorists. Image of the underworld abound: the tattooed bodies of the members of one yakuza, the intricate floral patterns of their tattoos forming a tapestry of honour; the amputated little fingers of those who have displayed cowardice or violated one of the unwritten rules of conduct; the ritual ceremony in which the leadership of the yakuza is passed from father to son.

The film shows how the close relationship between the police and the communities in which they work has contributed to the relative peacefulness of Japanese cities. Whereas in North America police work centres around the patrol car, in Japan its focus its the koban, or the local police station. From these storefront offices, cops on foot and on bicycle circulate through the neighbourhood, giving directions, helping children, chatting with shopkeeers, and taking part in local festivals. The film thoroougthly examines the role of the police, from the "proud tears" of the new graduates of the police academy to the ritual ceremony in which they are given their guns; from cops teaching marital arts to neighbourhood children to a quite moment in which two officers take tea in the back room of the koban.

Many Japanese see a breakdown in traditional values, and fear a social decline like that in North America. But perhaps the traditional emphasis on famility and ritual will prove a source of strength and tolerance. In the final scene of the film, a religious festival is underway; crowds move through the streets bearing aloft a shrine to their local deity. Everyone takes part in the ritual: the general public, the police, and even the yakuza. The film concludes: "In the delicate balance of the Japanese family, a place is made for everyone."

The Autumn Rain: Crime in Japan is essential viewing for student of criminology, sociology, and far eastern studies, as well as for those who wish to gain a better understanding of Japanese society.