First of all despite the content, the story idea and the GORE (yes, there is some really over the top bloodletting in this film) it is NOT a horror film... its a work of human existence and a need to sustain ones life in light of the things that many take for granted. The casting is superb, everyone (even the off the wall characters) fit perfect and in the scheme of things they all work well no matter how minor they may seem because they seem to be taking themselves pretty serious. I can see how it may confuse and bewilder alot of people used to typical Hollywood film structure, and when more westerners here in the states finally see it they will most likely not "get it". I'm guessing the comparisons to Battle Royale (still a far superior work of art, though its unfair to compare them... totally different films despite being social commentarys) will also draw in and then ultimatley turn off many fans too since it leaves you with a empty, pondering feeling at the end. Great film, not for everyone but if you want to take a risk on something a bit different give it a spin in your dvd player, its at the very least a nice departure from the typical western film and the forced art house flicks like Pi. oh, and Ryo Ishibashi is excellent as usual too...9/10