Watch Smoking

Smoking is a captivating 2018 Japanese drama series exclusive to Netflix that seamlessly combines crime, suspense, and action with the exploration of social issues. The show features a cadre of hardened bounty hunters who smoke and scheme in the underbelly of Tokyo. The narrative focuses on this group’s relentless pursuit of justice, seeking vengeance on behalf of those who cannot fight for themselves.

Boasting of a riveting narrative and dark, gritty aesthetics, Smoking is a critical dive into the intense world of underground vigilantes. It stands out with its multidimensional portrayal of revenge, redemption, and the human struggle against a system that appears to be inherently skewed against the weak. Rendering an upsetting journey of pain and loss, the show conveys an emotionally charged narrative through its characters and their experience of a world steeped in malevolence and brutality.

At the very core of Smoking is an ensemble of characters who exhibit a grudging tolerance for violence due to their respective pasts. These bounty hunters, all previous victims of intense violence, foster a unique fraternity bound by their shared traumatic history. They plot retaliation against those who exploit society's defenseless individuals, adopting abhorrent methods to ensure justice. The bounty hunters express their struggle against their violent instincts while battling their tragic pasts.

The contours of the plot thicken as the hunters encounter the Yakuza, Japan's infamous organized crime syndicate, setting the stage for a sequence of thrilling and fatal confrontations. The consequent unfolding of events adds depth to the narrative, driving it towards an enthralling climax.

Smoking's production design and cinematography enhance the narrative's vigor. The dismal scenery and dimly lit sequences contribute to a dark and chaotic atmosphere that influences the viewer's perception of the show's tone. The filming locations, primarily in Tokyo's seedy quarters, provide a realistic, grim backdrop that complements the narrative's theme.

Fumihiko Sori, a renowned Japanese director known for live-action adaptations of anime and manga stories, helms Smoking. Sori’s directorial expertise brings a unique stylized action that effectively carries the show's visual storytelling. He masterfully crafts high-octane and elegantly choreographed action sequences that inject the narrative with an adrenaline rush, enhancing the uniqueness and appeal of Smoking.

The performances of the lead actors stand as another compelling aspect of the series. Every character is portrayed with conviction, breathing life into the series' intense narrative. Tomomi Maruyama, in particular, delivers a strong performance, perfectly depicting the essence of a dispirited man transforming into a justice-seeking vigilante. With excellent performances and complex character arcs, the series keeps viewers gripped at all stages.

The series also delves into a critique of society's pervasive corruption and predatory behavior. It explores the power dynamics that govern society and the ways marginalized individuals are forced to bear the brunt of these disparities. A powerful social commentary runs through the episodes as the series works to expose society's injustices and the individuals who choose to battle them.

Moreover, the show makes brilliant use of the recurring motif of smoking. Beyond the aesthetic value and character shading, the act of smoking is utilised as a mirror to reflect the societal decay and moral dilemmas that the characters are dealing with. It becomes a symbol for the life and destiny that they are chained to, further intensifying the narrative grit of the show.

Smoking is not just another crime drama; it's a profound exploration of trauma, revenge, and social inequalities. It does not shy away from unveiling the harsh realities of its characters' world, presenting a dark and heavy narrative that is both unsettling and gripping. For viewers fond of series that vibrantly mix high-intensity action with deep-rooted social issues, Smoking is a show that shouldn't be overlooked. In its relentless pursuit of justice, it unveils a narrative universe that, although drenched in violence and pain, also weaves a compelling tale of courage and resilience that is bound to leave viewers on the edge of their seats. With all its raw energy and intense storytelling, Smoking stands out as a noteworthy addition to Netflix's cache of international television.

Smoking is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on July 28, 2018.