Giri/Haji: A Cross-Cultural Thriller Following in the Footsteps of Black Doves

If you’re a fan of the gripping spy thriller Black Doves, created by Joe Barton and starring Keira Knightley, then prepare to be captivated by another of his masterpieces: Giri/Haji. This British crime drama, premiering on BBC Two in 2019 before its international release, offers a unique blend of suspense, cultural immersion, and complex characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat. While different enough to stand on its own, Giri/Haji shares thematic similarities and a compelling tone with Black Doves, making it a perfect companion piece for those seeking a similar viewing experience.

A Detective's Journey Across Cultures

The series follows Kenzo Mori (Takehiro Hira), a Tokyo-based detective who embarks on a perilous journey to London in search of his missing brother, Yuto (Yōsuke Kubozuka). Yuto, a member of the yakuza, is accused of murdering a family member of a powerful gang. His disappearance throws the Tokyo underworld into chaos, prompting Kenzo to cross continents in a desperate attempt to uncover the truth.

Navigating the Underworlds of Tokyo and London

Kenzo's quest leads him deep into the criminal underbellies of both Tokyo and London. Under the guise of being an exchange student at a London police academy, he meets Sarah (Kelly MacDonald), a Metropolitan Police officer grappling with her own personal and professional demons. He also encounters Rodney (Will Sharpe), a half-Japanese, half-British drug addict, whose knowledge of London's underworld proves invaluable to Kenzo's investigation. The investigation takes an unexpected turn when Kenzo's daughter, Taki (Aoi Okuyama), flees to London in an act of rebellion, further entangling him in the complexities of the case.

Duty, Shame, and Family Ties

The title Giri/Haji translates from Japanese to “duty” and “shame,” respectively. These words aptly capture the central themes of the series. Each character is bound by duty in various ways – family, work, personal morality – and their actions often lead to feelings of shame, creating a web of interconnected consequences. No one in Giri/Haji is on a purely moral path, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The plot itself is almost secondary to the exploration of family, moral obligations, and the compromises people make for those they love.

Exploring Moral Ambiguity

Kenzo, in particular, embodies this conflict. He must balance his duty as a police detective with his loyalty to his brother, often making difficult choices that compromise his personal morals. Similarly, Sarah, while upholding her duty as a police officer, finds herself helping Kenzo, blurring the lines between her professional and personal lives. Their relationship highlights the moral grey areas within the narrative, forcing viewers to question their own perceptions of right and wrong.

An Ensemble Cast and a BAFTA-Winning Performance

Giri/Haji boasts a stellar international cast, featuring a blend of well-known and up-and-coming actors from Japan, the UK, and the US. Anna Sawai and Justin Long add to the star-studded ensemble. However, it's Will Sharpe's portrayal of Rodney that truly stands out. His performance is lauded as heartbreaking, funny, and powerful—a revelation that earned him a well-deserved BAFTA Television Award. He brings humor and levity to a story often steeped in darkness and despair. The performances across the board are exceptional, showcasing the depth and complexity of each character.

A Legacy of Praise

Despite being cancelled by BBC Two and Netflix in 2020, Giri/Haji has amassed a loyal following. Viewers across social media platforms repeatedly praise its intricate plot, profound emotions, and breathtaking style. Kathy Burke, a well-known English actress and comedian, even added her voice to the chorus of praise, calling the show “beautifully made, very funny, and at times really surprising.” The renewed interest sparked by Black Doves' popularity has reintroduced Giri/Haji to a new generation of viewers, proving its lasting impact and undeniable quality.

A Must-Watch for Fans of Complex Narratives

In the end, Giri/Haji transcends genre expectations. It's a compelling blend of crime thriller, family drama, and cross-cultural exploration. With its superb performances, intriguing plot, and profound emotional depth, it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates nuanced storytelling and complex characters. This gripping drama will stay with you long after the credits roll, and is a perfect follow-up for those who enjoyed the thrilling ride of Black Doves.

This series explores the lengths people go to for love and loyalty, showing that the line between duty and shame is often blurred. The performances in Giri/Haji are outstanding, and its exploration of moral ambiguity makes it an exceptional crime drama and a worthy addition to your watchlist. It is available to stream on Netflix. This compelling cross-cultural thriller offers a unique perspective on duty, shame, and the intricacies of family bonds.