The eclectic "Bad Lieutenant" film series is adding a new, stand-alone sequel with Takashi Miike's "Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo." Neon released the first trailer for the crime drama, which marks the latest entry in a trilogy known for its disconnected installments helmed by different directors.
Takashi Miike, a filmmaker recognized for his graphic violence and provocative works such as "Audition" and "Ichi the Killer," is directing the upcoming film. The screenplay was penned by Miike's frequent collaborator Daisuke Tengan. The movie stars Shun Oguri as a disgraced Tokyo detective who becomes embroiled in a convoluted investigation involving a vengeful ex-Yakuza, an enigmatic FBI agent, and the missing daughter of a prominent American family. The cast also includes Lily James, Shotaro Mamiya, Jun Kunimura, Liv Morgan, and Hiroshi Tachi.
This upcoming film is the third in the "Bad Lieutenant" series, though it is not a traditional franchise with a continuous narrative. The original "Bad Lieutenant" was released in 1992, directed by Abel Ferrara and starring Harvey Keitel as a corrupt NYPD detective. The film garnered attention for its NC-17 rating due to its mature content and eventually became a cult classic.
In 2009, Werner Herzog directed "Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans," starring Nicolas Cage. Herzog stated the film was not a remake but shared the central character of a corrupt policeman. This installment was noted for its blend of black comedy and violence. Abel Ferrara expressed displeasure with the 2009 sequel, reportedly not receiving royalties, though he later reconciled with Herzog. Rights holder Edward R. Pressman has stated plans for further "Bad Lieutenant" sequels set in various global locations, each with local production partners and directors focusing on corrupt law enforcement.
Mike's involvement in "Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo" is seen as a fitting choice, given his history of exploring crime, the yakuza, and controversial subject matter with a distinct stylistic signature. The film is scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September, with a wider theatrical release date yet to be announced. Neon will distribute the film in the U.S., suggesting a theatrical run is likely.