Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Prolific actor Shogen, who goes by a single name, will be starring in a new movie – Gensan Punch.

The movie, which is set for a June 3 release, is about boxer Nao Tsuyama, who lost his leg.

Shogen, who also starred in Death Note and Street Fighter, portrays a boxer from Okinawa who wants to turn professional. The movie is directed by award-winning director Briante Ma Mendoza.

The film is inspired by the true story of a boxer who, despite his handicap, wishes to fight as normal. After Japan refuses to grant him a license, he moves to the Philippines to train and obtain all the necessary certifications.

As in many boxing movies, the film is about an individual’s strong will and mental strength and his desire to triumph over the limitations of his body.

The atmosphere in the training rooms and the human warmth that emanates there is perfectly described in this intimate film and the fights have great authenticity.

One of the interesting aspects of the film is that the viewer almost forgets that the boxer has a prosthesis as the focus is on the emotions of the boxer and his victories and failures.

Despite its intimate side, the film falls into the category of great boxing films and stands alongside such greats as Rocky and Raging Bull.