User Reviews

There's a lot wrong with this show, there's plenty of plot holes but the charm, characters and relationships they have more than make up for it.

I really liked the characters and their relationships. Storyline was pretty gritty and keep a good pace throughout the show. From what I've read there isn't going to be a 2nd season. Too bad bad definitely worth checking out as they wrap up everything nicely.

Superb show that kept me hooked the whole way through. Short snappy episodes that cut to the chase. Fingers crossed for a second season!

If you seek an intelligent but humble television series that takes you into a fictional world you've probably never explored: and, becomes more satisfying, interesting, entertaining, complex, and compassionate with each episode-then give the Japanese television series "Smoking" a try and you'll likely become addicted.

The writers throw you into the deep end of the blood-filled Yakuza pool before you really know what's happening: and, initially the warm blood repulses, disorients, and demands your focus.

But, your tolerance for fake blood, and your patience, proves rewarding when some revealing character development (in the form of back-story) starts weaving into the current events, driving the briskly-paced 28 minute episodes.

Initially Smoking seems predictable: but, by the second hour, the main characters' individual (back) stories begin to balance the scale with some unpredictability, heart-felt emotions, and writing that eventually challenges the actors enough to demonstrate why they landed the lead rolls.

Like fine cigars, fine whiskey, and fine wine, time reveals complexity, nuance, pedigree, quality, craftsmanship and the rewards for your patience - much like the Japanese TV series Smoking.

Smoking was a pleasant surprise in a Netflix queue that is quickly running out of original content. Each episode takes you on a deeper ride into a family of outcasts attempting to make a better life from the rubble of a former one and by the end you not only empathize with each protagonist introduced, but feel like you've taken an entire ride through the lives of four strangers.

If you're a fan of tense drama draped over with satisfying gore please check this out. If you enjoy a good crime thriller, check this out. If you enjoy gangster movies, check this out. If you have been known to indulge in international film to broaden your mind on other societies, check this out. If you have the ability to see this series, check this out.

All in all, watch this series, it is worth the attention.

Fantastic series Short snappy episodes that keep you hooked.Plenty of Blood..Plenty Of Laughs..and plenty of flayed skin..enjoy!

I started watching it on Netflix as a joke with no high hopes for it, thinking it would be ultra cheesy! By the time I knew it I'd already watched 6 episodes. The acting is a bit naff in places but I enjoyed the whole thing! The story was great and easy to follow, plus the whole series is filled with gore and the episodes are a good length to keep you entertained without getting bored halfway through. I'm sad that it's ended and I'm already wishing for season 2!! :)

This is some average, low budget, Japanese TV. Not something that can stand on par, with stuff like their anime, or even Kdramas. I'm being nice by giving it a 5. Could easily make a case for 3 or 4. Because the only good things are the life lessons and morality in it.

Also, the flaying is nasty.

Simply The Best Japanese Gang's work ever.

The cast the story the Production what an incredible work.

Thank you for that

Why haven't I heard about this show before??!! It is so good. I stumbled upon this show on Netflix and before I realised I had binged watch it the whole night. Heck, I made an account just to comment here. Please watch it if you haven't watch it yet.

I chanced upon this show and watched because I enjoy Japanese Drama. By episode 2 I was hooked and binge watched it over 2 nights. The 4 main characters and their backstory and tragedies as they do what is right in a world of evil, pull you in and by the end you are rooting for a second season.

'Smoking' stands out as a remarkable drama that has successfully transitioned from the pages of manga to the screen. The series captivates with its exceptional cast, whose performances are so authentic that they bring the manga's characters to life. The show's production, from the choice of music to the color palette, complements the narrative beautifully, creating an immersive experience for the viewer.

Acting: The cast of 'Smoking' delivers with such conviction that they cease to be actors and become the very souls they portray. Their flawless execution anchors the drama, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the unfolding events.

Direction: The direction of 'Smoking' is nothing short of visionary. It's a rare feat to see a production where every scene, every cut, and every angle is crafted with such deliberate intent, enhancing the story's emotional gravity.

Music: The soundtrack of 'Smoking' is a character in its own right. It weaves through the narrative, accentuating the tension and drama, never overpowering but always present - a subtle guide through the series' dark themes.

Visuals: The colors of 'Smoking' paint a vivid picture of the tone and mood of the series. They are chosen not just to please the eye but to evoke emotions, to highlight the gravity of the narrative, and to immerse the viewer in the world of 'Smoking.'

Conclusion: 'Smoking' is a series that deserves accolades for its bold storytelling and artistic execution. It's a work that stays with you, challenging your perceptions and leaving a lasting impression. For those who have yet to witness this masterpiece, prepare for a journey that's as harrowing as it is beautiful.

The shows composes itself the same way from start to end. It's simple. Bad people who do bad things to others deserve bad things happening to them - That's the motto throughout the series. The characters are unique and very fun loving and have a great synergy between them all throughout the series. It takes you on an exciting ride with lots of emotions from start to end especially the end where the more you discover the more you relate to the characters. The characters have really done their parts well. Too bad, its not getting renewed for a new season. 9/10 would recommend for a one time watch.

I had no idea what this would be about, is this based on anime, a novel, or what. But it's actually pretty entertaining, think Yakuza meets the A-Team. There's only twelve episodes, they're short, move quickly, and you have to appreciate Netflix for providing a platform for this interesting content.

You get a little backstory on our foursome every other episode, you see the most popular Yakuza art designs, and I still wasn't sure what they did with their money or why they recycle cans daily. Very inscrutable. It'll take less than a day or so to binge the entire season, and probably leave you wanting a bit more.