American Yakuza (1993) stars Viggo Mortensen in an early leading role as an undercover FBI agent infiltrating the Japanese yakuza. Directed by Frank A. Cappello, the film blends crime drama and action elements while exploring loyalty and identity within organized crime. Ryo Ishibashi co-stars as a yakuza leader, bringing authenticity to the film’s portrayal of Japanese criminal structures.

Arrow Video

IN AMERICA, THEY CALL IT THE MAFIA... IN JAPAN, THEY CALL IT YAKUZA... WHEN THEY MEET, THEY CALL IT WAR!

When Japanese filmmaking powerhouse Toei Pictures decided to expand their iconic V-Cinema line to North America, the first result was the explosively violent American Yakuza, featuring an early lead performance from Viggo Mortensen in the title role.

Ex-convict Nick Davis (Mortensen) gets a job in a factory that turns out to be owned by a powerful Japanese crime family. When Nick intervenes in a fiery confrontation and saves the life of family member Shuji (Ryo Ishibashi, Audition), he finds himself climbing the deadly ranks of the Yakuza in its bloody war against the Mafia. There's one problem, however; Nick's real name is David Brandt, and he's an undercover FBI agent whose loyalties will soon be tested to their breaking point.

Featuring an outstanding supporting cast including Michael Nouri (The Hidden), Franklyn Ajaye (Deadwood), Nicky Katt (Grindhouse) and Robert Forster (Jackie Brown), director Frank Cappello weaves an exhilarating tale of deception and betrayal in this underseen trans-continental gangster thriller.

Från IMDB:
An American FBI agent is lured away by the Japanese Mafia--the Yakuza--in this action film.