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Movie: First Impressions
Kiriyama is at his most captivating when he first appears on screen, a mysterious stranger lurking in the back corner shrouded in darkness. The viewer has no idea what this man will bring forth to the movie and whats more the ideal that there is another mysterious stranger in the opposing corner only adds to ones curiosity. But for some reason (probably due to clever camera work) Kiriyama is immediately shown as 'evil'. He is more brooding and darker thanks to his black coat and pants and the surrounding lighting.
Once Kitano enters the room a little more light is shown as to what these mysterious boys are doing here. Supposedly they are 'exchange students' but the foreboding nature of the situation indicates there is much more to it then that. It would seem however that Kiriyama was far more well informed than the class sitting on the floor because he remains so calm and collect. Uncaring for the situation.
For much of his time on screen this early in the movie Kiriyama spends time in the background while everything happens before him. In many instances he doesn't react in the least but every now and again an almost curious Kazuo can be seen watching those infront of him. Immediately we are shown there is depth to the character, he is not just some pawn of the government sitting in the corner sent to freak out kids. He is something more.
As things progress you can always see the mysterious boy sitting in the background, slowly chewing what appears to be gum and surprisingly fidgeting. His actions show a sense of boredom where everyone else is so intent and caught up in the situation he seems some place else. Intrigue and interest grows in the character, he is pushed to the background and yet I could never take my eyes off him. There was something about his attitude, his look that captivated and drew me in.
Finally we see action! Though Kiriyama has been quietly brooding and fidgeting this is the first time he actually removes himself from his perch. Attitude is shown once again because of how long it took to move, uncurling like some animal waking up and preparing to go after it's prey. The army man's taunts do nothing to sway him as he saunters up to them. With a quick glance at the two dead bodies below he commands the shot showing that he is in fact in charge of this game and doesn't care what anyone throws at him.
It is now our thoughts are confirmed, Kitano clearly states that Kiriyama along with Kawada is dangerous. Kazuo will kill, Kazuo will hurt, Kazuo is king. Sparks of rivalry can also be shown through Kawada and Kiriyama's exchanged glares, it's almost like they are challenging each other. But still Kazuo remains calm, collect and uncaring. Almost a shell and yet at the same time he seems complex and interesting and someone to certainly keep your eye on throughout the movie.
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