A Hidden Gem in British Crime Drama Landscape
Enthusiasts of British crime thrillers have a compelling new series to explore on streaming platforms, a production that has quietly garnered significant critical and audience acclaim, drawing comparisons to acclaimed shows like Line of Duty and Broadchurch. This gripping dual-language drama, Giri/Haji, meaning ‘Duty/Shame’ in Japanese, has captivated viewers worldwide since its international debut on Netflix.
From BBC Two to Global Streaming Success
Originally broadcast on BBC Two in October 2019, Giri/Haji quickly became available to a broader audience through Netflix in January 2020. The series is a collaborative effort between Netflix and the BBC, a testament to its high production value and compelling narrative. Created by Joe Barton, known for his work on Black Doves and The Lazarus Project, the show features an international ensemble cast including Takehiro Hira, Kelly Macdonald, Will Sharpe, Yosuke Kubozuka, Justin Long, Masahiro Motoki, Anna Sawai, and Charlie Creed-Miles.
A Transnational Tale of Duty and Danger
The narrative of Giri/Haji unfolds across the vibrant cities of London and Tokyo, with dialogue seamlessly shifting between English and Japanese. The official synopsis describes the series as a thriller centered on Tokyo detective Kenzo Mori. Mori embarks on a perilous journey into the London underworld in search of his presumed-dead brother, Yuto. Yuto is implicated in the brutal murder of a yakuza member’s nephew, an act that threatens to ignite a full-blown gang war. Kenzo’s investigation into his brother’s disappearance plunges him into the dangerous and corrupt depths of London’s criminal circuit.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Devotion
Despite its eventual cancellation by BBC Two and Netflix in September 2020, Giri/Haji left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike. The series boasts a perfect 100% rating on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, a rare feat that underscores its widespread critical approval. Reviewers have lauded its originality and depth, with one critic stating, “There is simply nothing else like this anywhere on television.” Another highlighted its genre-bending nature, noting, “If you love gangster thrillers, Giri/Haji is unbeatable.”
Further praise has been heaped upon its complex yet darkly humorous tone, its profound exploration of family dynamics, and its visually striking presentation. One reviewer described it as a unique blend, stating, “It cross-pollinates genres – mixing cop show, yakuza thriller, love story, anime and hokey family melodrama, all spiked with bits of offbeat comedy. Giri/Haji is unlike anything else on TV.” The stylistic innovations, including shifts to black and white, animation, and even slow-motion interpretive dance, have been particularly noted.
Audience Outcry and Lasting Impact
Viewers have ed significant disappointment over the show’s discontinuation, with many considering it a standout piece of television. One fan commented, “This is by far one of the greatest shows I have ever seen. It’s artful, creative and existential in all the best ways possible.” Another viewer praised its engaging nature, writing, “Gripping from the first moment. Intelligent script, stunning cast, brilliantly crafted. Blends thrills and humour.” The sentiment of loss was echoed by admirers who described the series as “outstanding,” with one writing, “There are some scenes that just surpass anything that I have seen on TV in recent times if not ever. Just outstanding…” The desire for a continuation of the series is palpable among its devoted fanbase.
