Movie Digest
“Kiba: The Fangs of Fiction,” based on a novel by Takeshi Shiota and written by Shiota and Ihiro Kusuno, is a film full of endearing characters who are fun to follow around. Its story is dynamic and entertaining, with numerous tiny twists and turns that keep you on your toes and entertained. While the film’s subject matter of the Japanese literary world may not appeal to everyone, it succeeds in making you care about the profession while also teaching you some of its subtleties.
The Feel-Good Part
The Fangs of Fiction manages to inject a surprising amount of tension and entertainment into a story that could have been handled as a low-key, slow-paced arthouse film. The cast is fantastic.
The Disappointing Factor
THE FANGS OF FICTION starts off as a mystery, and the only letdown is how fast it all wraps up.
In-Depth Analysis
THE FANGS OF FICTION begins like a mystery novel, cutting back and forth between Megumi (Mayu Matsuoka), a rookie editor, and the soon-to-be-deceased leader of the Kunpu publishing dynasty. The magnate’s death sets in motion a chain of events, culminating in the boisterous and confident Akira being tasked with taking over the faltering Trinity magazine imprint. Despite the CEO’s (Koichi Sato) support, Trinity is pitted against publishing housemates at the prestigious Kunpo Magazine. To spice up the magazine, Akira brings Megumi along. They recruit new talent, including a model (Elaiza Ikeda), influencers, and other people who would attract new readers, in addition to persuading blowhard writer Daisaku Nikaido (Jun Kunimura) to attempt something new.
Star Power
It’s also quite well-constructed. Its score, which consists of of guitar riffs, bass, and percussion, is as dynamic as the film itself and contributes to the enjoyment. Both the editing and cinematography are above average, keeping up with the rapid paced action while adding colour and energy. Many well-known actors appear in the film, including Yo Oizumi, Mayu Matsuoka, Koichi Sato, Lily Franky, Takumi Saitoh, and Satomi Kobayashi. Others, like main characters Oizumi and Matsuoka, have smaller roles but shine throughout the film.
Overall Opinion
The Fangs of Fiction is a fantastic story that features a cast of talented and fascinating performers that bring the world of magazine editing to life. Director Daihachi Yoshida does this with a blend of drama and humour that results in an unexpectedly enjoyable film.
