Watch Stray Cat Rock: Beat 71

Stray Cat Rock: Beat 71 is a 1971 Japanese movie that serves as the fourth film in the Stray Cat Rock series. The movie is directed by Toshiya Fujita and stars Meiko Kaji, Tatsuya Fuji, and Yoshio Harada in prominent roles. The movie is set in the backdrop of late 1960s Japan, where the youth were rebelling against the older generation and their authoritarian regime. The story revolves around a group of five young women who are part of a motorcycle gang called the Stray Cats. The members of the Stray Cats are outcasts and misfits who rebel against the societal norms of their time.

The protagonist of the movie is Mako, played by Meiko Kaji, a tough and charismatic member of the Stray Cats gang. Mako is fiercely independent and does not tolerate any kind of injustice towards herself or her gang members. She has a romantic interest in Toshi, played by Tatsuya Fuji, who is a disenchanted musician and a former member of another rival motorcycle gang, the Eagles.

The Eagles gang is led by a cruel and violent leader, Kisaragi, played by Yoshio Harada, who is also interested in Mako. Kisaragi and his gang often clash with the Stray Cats, leading to bloody brawls and fights between the two groups.

The movie starts with a scene where Mako and her gang members help Toshi, who is being chased by the Eagles. Mako and Toshi then develop a friendship that blooms into a romantic relationship. However, their relationship is complicated by the fact that they belong to rival gangs, and their respective gang members do not approve of their relationship.

As the story progresses, tensions between the Stray Cats and the Eagles reach boiling point. Kisaragi and his gang become increasingly violent and aggressive towards Mako and her gang members. The Stray Cats also face opposition from corrupt cops who demonize and harass them for their rebellious lifestyle.

The climax of the movie sees the Stray Cats and the Eagles involved in a final confrontation, which leads to a gruesome and tragic ending. The movie ends on a somber note that reflects the disillusionment and despair of the youth who rebelled against the oppressive regime of their time.

Stray Cat Rock: Beat 71 is a movie that embodies the spirit of rebellion and opposition towards the societal norms of its time. The movie is a reflection of the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s that sought to challenge the status quo and bring about social change.

The movie's soundtrack, composed by Hajime Kaburagi, adds to the movie's gritty and rebellious tone. The movie features some of the most popular Japenese pop and rock songs of the time, including "Schoolgirl Complex" and "Shake Your Hips," which became iconic hits in the years to come.

The movie's cast is led by the talented Meiko Kaji, who plays the role of Mako with ease and conviction. Kaji's portrayal of Mako is one of the highlights of the movie, and she brings a depth and complexity to the character that is rare in movies of its time.

Tatsuya Fuji also delivers a fine performance as Toshi, bringing a brooding intensity to the character. Yoshio Harada's portrayal of Kisaragi is suitably menacing and intimidating, and he makes for a formidable antagonist to Kaji's Mako.

In conclusion, Stray Cat Rock: Beat 71 is a must-watch movie for fans of Japanese cinema and counterculture. The movie's gritty and rebellious tone, powerful performances, and iconic soundtrack make it an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of a generation that sought to challenge and change the world.

Stray Cat Rock: Beat 71 is a 1971 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.