Is The Hoodlum Priest Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Hoodlum Priest is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 84 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Hoodlum Priest Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1967, The Hoodlum Priest enters the Action genre with a narrative focused on The first film in the 2 part series about Ryuzen, a renegade martial-arts priest who, in addition to breaking all the commandments against sex and gambling, opens his own gambling den in direct defiance of the local yakuza boss. Under the direction of Kimiyoshi Yasuda, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Shintarō Katsu, Mayumi Ogawa, Mikio Narita. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Hoodlum Priest offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Hoodlum Priest resonates with current cultural themes in the Action space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Hoodlum Priest is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Hoodlum Priest centers on a unique premise within the Action landscape. The first film in the 2 part series about Ryuzen, a renegade martial-arts priest who, in addition to breaking all the commandments against sex and gambling, opens his own gambling den in direct defiance of the local yakuza boss. Exciting action and a twisty plot this movie breaks new barriers in Japanese cinema. Katsu Shintaro is superb in one of his better non-Zato Ichi roles as he fights off the advances of a love-lorn woman and risks his life to defeat the powerful gambling boss who has a stranglehold on the town. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1967 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Hoodlum Priest has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Hoodlum Priest sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Hoodlum Priest (1967): with an audience rating of 7/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Action, Crime, History cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Hoodlum Priest has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Action, Crime, History), viewers should expect violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7/10, and global collection metrics, The Hoodlum Priest stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1967 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Hoodlum Priest movie hit or flop?
The Hoodlum Priest is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Action, Crime, History movies.
Is The Hoodlum Priest worth watching?
Yes, The Hoodlum Priest is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Action, Crime, History cinema.
What genre is The Hoodlum Priest?
The Hoodlum Priest is a Action, Crime, History movie that The first film in the 2 part series about Ryuzen, a renegade martial-arts priest who, in addition to breaking all the commandments against sex and gam...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Hoodlum Priest movie hit or flop?
The Hoodlum Priest is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Action, Crime, History movies.
Is The Hoodlum Priest worth watching?
Yes, The Hoodlum Priest is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Action, Crime, History cinema.
What genre is The Hoodlum Priest?
The Hoodlum Priest is a Action, Crime, History movie that The first film in the 2 part series about Ryuzen, a renegade martial-arts priest who, in addition to breaking all the commandments against sex and gam...
Is The Hoodlum Priest family friendly?
The Hoodlum Priest may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Action, Crime, History elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch The Hoodlum Priest?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Hoodlum Priest on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Hoodlum Priest?
The Hoodlum Priest features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The Hoodlum Priest?
The runtime and duration of The Hoodlum Priest are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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