Ignoring the gore that's arguably worse than Metamorphosis (177013) and Loli in a Box (215600) combined, it's a grueling yakuza tale with.. intriguing characters to say the least. Ichi is one that I feel sympathy for, despite his murderous rampage. He takes on childish behavior, including crying hysterically after a murder and referring to his prey as "bullies" rather than full fledged criminals, which could only be a result of Ojisan's manipulation. Poor guy had his bullying and PTSD used as a tool for Ojisan's destruction of the mafia hierarchy. The art is a unique style, tainted by the absolutely horrific scenes that are illustrated. The ending was a bit rushed, I wanted the twins along with Yakihara to die a more.. painful death, but I'm glad they got what they deserved. Kaneko shouldn't have died, however.
I saw the movie and loved it even though the violence was pretty gory but that's what makes Ichi the Killer a classic. If you into the macabre like me then this is the manga for you!!!!!!