Memoir of a Murderer (2017) - full transcript
A former serial killer with Alzheimer's fights to protect his daughter from her psychotic boyfriend.
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...columns of smoke are everywhere.
Due to fires, residents evacuated to parks.
The Kobe freeway overpass collapsed.
A bus is hanging over the edge.
...There are many fires in the city.
I can see flames...
I'm in Kobe's District 7.
A dozen houses have collapsed in the area.
Rescuers are yet to arrive.
Kobe is in ruins!
A huge earthquake...
Tokyo...gas attack...
The coroner says it was strangulation.
Rise!
Salute!
A repeat murderer is at large.
He broke into Yukio Kishi's home last night
and bound his victim.
The method?
Possibly a rope.
Marks on the neck suggest strangulation.
This is the 4th repeat murder.
The police have been criticized
for hiding this fact.
All officers, respond to a crime scene in Adachi.
?The Murder Count is Now 5"
?Strangler at Large?
The New Millennium begins.
?Task Force is Cut Back?
?Unsolved for 10 Years?
The criminal law was revised today,
on April 27, 2010.
?The Statute Expires?
?The Statute Expires?
No statute of limitations for capital crimes.
No statute of limitations for capital crimes.
?Investigation Ends?
?Investigation Ends?
We lost.
We lost.
?Families Upset?
?Families Upset?
Our time's up.
?Families Upset?
It can't be true!
Damn it, stop!
You hear me? Stop now!
NOW!
Slop!
- Makimura!
- Go, go!
Keep going, Kasukabe.
You with the piercing!
'Mm.!
Kasukabe.
Makimura.
Screw you, cops!
You tight with Tachibana yakuza?
Maybe.
You're in with them!
- I don't know.
- Cool it.
Why did you run then?
No mom wants her kid in the mafia.
Go straight for her.
What would you know?
Sir, it's the Chief.
We'll bring you the Tokyo Strangler.
You're missing something huge on TV!
We'll bring you the Tokyo Strangler.
Get back now.
It's his press conference.
It's his press conference.
What about him?
Let him go.
But...
Do you remember the strangler 22 years ago?
The statute of limitations expired on
the Tokyo Strangler case in 1995.
Now the offender's outed himself.
He did!
He wrote an expos? about it...
Excuse me.
Our reporter's at the press conference.
Murakami here.
It's time.
We're about to meet the offender of the cold case.
The atmosphere is tense as we wait to see him.
I'll outline the case.
The murder case...
Just in time!
...the statute of limitations expired
7 years ago today on April 27.
Won't he be arrested though?
Good point. I'll explain.
The statute of limitations was 15 years.
Then in 2010 the law concerning
the statute of limitations was revised.
Now there's no statute of limitations
for capital offenses.
The revision applies to
felonies committed after midnight on April 28, 1995.
Now, back to the Tokyo Strangler case.
The last killing committed
was on April 27, 1995, just a night before the 28th.
The statute of limitations expired
15 years later at midnight on April 27, 2010.
A day before the new law was effective!
Exactly.
If the murder had happened a day later
it would've been triable!
That's the history and we have the perpetrator.
He's here?
The press conference will begin.
The man you failed to arrest 22 years ago.
Members of the press.
Back to your seats so we can begin.
Back to your seats please.
Members of the press, be seated
as we'll soon begin.
It was 1995.
I'd completed my 5 memorable murders
but I was
frustrated.
The incompetent police
had no clue
of where to find me.
As for the media
their theories about me were infantile.
They misled the public.
The case is forgotten and the truth's warped.
Someone must tell the truth
before it's too late.
The police and the media
are misinformed.
I decided to write about it myself.
I'll reveal everything
about the case now.
Adachi, Tokyo January 4, 1995
Makimura.
Yes, sir!
This is your first murder case.
Keep your cool.
When I killed
I made a relative of the victim
or a close person watch me do it.
That's my first rule.
He's bad!
Preferably a member of
the immediate family.
I only permitted one witness
to watch.
Mommy, Daddy! Open the door!
Mommy, Daddy, let me in!
Setagaya, Tokyo February 14, 1995
I had a signature.
I strangled my victims with a rope
from behind.
That's the second rule of
my modus operandi.
The third rule was
to keep the witness alive.
My method was unique
and unprecedented.
I needed the witness to live
so they'd tell the police and media
about my art.
Chuo, Tokyo
March 15, 1995
A victim, dying of strangulation
and a witness who couldn't
stop the murder.
I had two pleasures from one murder.
The thrill was indescribable.
The police finally took notice.
The 4th victim
was Dr. Yamagata's wife.
The police kept the murder
out of the news
in the hope of luring me out.
Nerima, Tokyo
March 31, 1995
The 4th murder
and its conspicuous absence
from the news
was obviously a trap but
Nerima, Tokyo April 6, 1995
was obviously a trap but
Nerima, Tokyo
April 6, 1995
Nerima, Tokyo April 6, 1995 out of
irritation I decided to play their game.
Out of irritation I decided to
play their game.
Will the killer come back here?
He'll be nervous that
it wasn't on the news.
I'll kill him when he shows up.
Don't be silly.
We'll arrest him
and let the law deal with him.
Look!
He's here!
Subject headed north.
Stay on him!
Makimura!
Makimura!
I knew who the 5th victim would be.
The investigator who shot my shoulder.
Detective Makimura.
Detective...Maki...mura
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April
27, 1995 shot my shoulder.
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April 27,
1995 Detective. . . Maki . . .mura
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April 27, 1995
- What's this? - A recorded call.
Cunning cops.
A new body.
I hid it.
The next body.
Detective Makimura.
In his apartment.
Makimura, wait!
Ota, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Makimura, stop!
Calm down!
Gas!
I'll go first.
Rika...?
Damn it!
Makimura? Are you OK?
Taki?
Taki!
Makimura
get him.
Taki!
Taki!
My modus operandi failed.
The victim and witness
were reversed.
Reluctantly I decided to put a stop
to my serial murders.
22 years have passed.
I waited but the police and the media
failed to find me.
No one understood what was behind
the murders.
So I have to reveal it myself.
I can't be tried.
My chance at legal redemption
has passed.
Telling the truth
is my last duty.
The victims.
Their families.
The frustrated and tired
investigators.
All of you.
My confessional book is
my humble gesture
of retribution.
Pleasure to meet you.
I am the murderer.
?L am the Murderer?
Memoirs of a Murderer
- Monster!
- Stop it!
He killed people!
Let's get him.
He's not triable.
- How's that possible?
- Calm down.
It's an outrage!
What about the surviving families?
How's it legal in this country?
What about freedom of speech?
People can write and publish
what they want.
This man's a felon!
What a smart criminal.
It's a good read.
I bought it.
- He can cash in on it.
- Sure.
- He's my type.
- He's cool.
He's evil but...
- I'm intrigued.
- It's all true.
You didn't buy the book? Buy it!
OK, ready?
Sone's cool!
What does he do?
Who is he?
?Mystery Man, Masato Sonezaki?
?Teidansha Publishers?
?Teidansha Publishers?
Bring us your editor!
?Teidansha Publishers?
Give us Sonezaki!
Where's the editor?
You damned publishers!
I heard that one of the victim's
relatives works here.
There it is.
Hello.
- Is Miharu in?
- She's with the manager.
I'll find her.
If this continues
I'll have to fire you.
Miharu.
What's wrong?
He says I'm obstructing sales.
- Idiot!
- Forget it!
So this is him.
This creep...
He killed my father twice.
22 years ago and then now.
He calls it an expos?!
3 Pages.
He only wrote 3 pages about my father.
It's unbelievable!
How's it possible?
Tell me!
Come on, die!
Why is he alive?
You're the police. Arrest him!
He killed 5!
He killed my father!
Even now
I hear Dad groaning behind the door.
How can they publish
this hideous book?
Why are people interested in it?
Makimura!
Answer me!
It sounds immoral but
I envy Sonezaki.
It's wrong to get rich off
his crimes but...
Sorry to bother you.
The police want you to come in for
a voluntary interview.
They have no legal power.
Ignore them.
How are sales?
It's going to 2nd print. It'll be top
in first-half sales.
That's not enough.
Did you line up the TV interview?
The TV stations are reluctant
to do it live.
?As an editor I'll sell
my soul for your book.?
They're your words.
Your book harmed our company.
Many authors moved to other publishers.
Of course they did.
You and your publisher
knew the nature of my book!
Do anything to sell it.
I put 22 years into it.
...some tragedies go unnoticed.
We should shine a light into
the hidden horrors.
That's the purpose of journalism.
See you tomorrow.
OK, that's a wrap.
Good job.
Thank you.
Nu . Sends .
They're the crew.
We'll be following you around.
Nice to meet you.
- When's the show?
- In November.
You wrote this as
a war correspondent.
- It moved me. It's my bible.
- Thank you.
Let's do a good show.
I'll take that.
Let's have Sonezaki on.
Sorry! Can you stop the camera
for a moment?
Keep taping!
It's a good documentary moment.
Nu . Sends .
The ratings would certainly
be good but...
It's irresponsible to have a
felon on TV.
You're missing the point.
22 years ago
I returned to Japan and
covered the case.
I went over every detail.
That reportage got me this job.
If I ignored him
I'd be denying my origins.
I must meet him.
If the law cannot touch him
we will try him.
I see...
Poor Miharu.
Have you heard of phantom pain?
No.
Say, you lost an arm in the war.
But...
you feel pain
where the missing arm was.
A missing limb can't be treated.
Same goes for the pain
of a surviving family.
I want to kill the killer.
I still want to...
Director!
This is a hospital!
Keep out!
What's on your mind, sir?
That's Dr. Yamagata, one of the
surviving family members.
What's Sonezaki here for?
What will he say?
Doctor.
22 years ago
You saw your wife being killed
by me.
L---
I sincerely apologize.
What the hell...?
You're sorry?
How arrogant!
You...!
Dr. Yamagata!
Makimura...!
Detective Makimura!
What kind of tip is that?
Look! That is Detective Makimura!
He was on the case.
Is it a coincidence?
I'm sorry
for the inconvenience I caused.
How have you been?
Why you...!
Step back!
?Awesome!?
?Cop vs. Strangler!?
Calm down!
Move!
Makimura, cool it!
Let me go!
Calm down, Makimura!
Put the camera away!
Keep that up and we
can't guarantee your safety.
I have to. It's not enough.
The TV show?
You had an offer.
Sendo, the host on News Eyes
wants a live interview.
You're easy to provoke!
Shut up.
Hey, remember the thug we chased?
Tachibana gang?
I had a tip on him.
He might whack someone.
Sonezaki has a book signing...
Line up.
Apologize to the victims' families!
Have your belongings checked
and move on.
Only selected shoppers
will meet the author today.
Please have your belongings checked.
Only the press can take photos.
Move!
Go!
Do we have to protect Sonezaki?
Shut up and drive.
Sir.
Go ahead.
Murderer!
I heard a rumor, Boss Tachibana.
Oh?
Rumors are baseless.
Even if you want revenge,
don't kill him.
He killed your partner.
Sonezaki is not human.
He has no compassion.
So you sent a thug to kill him?
That's just a rumor.
Damn! Step on it.
Thank you.
Thank you!
Can I shake your hand?
The police!
Clear the area!
Makimura!
Get out of my way!
Police! Move it!
- Backup?
- On the way.
Keep the cell on.
Damn, there are too many people!
Talk to me, Kasukabe.
Damn...
Get down!
What do you want?
Exposure.
Stay here!
Sonezaki!
Watch him.
You'd be thrown in jail!
Good!
I want to kill him for Dad.
As payback.
Dad could go to heaven.
Autographs...!
For destroying my family!
Damn him...
Why did you protect him?
Why?
Makimura?
Go.
Miharu.
Go, Miharu.
Go.
Makimura!
Sorry, I...
You're hurt!
Why bother?
Nobody would blame you if he died!
22 years ago I was this close to him
and he escaped.
If I'd caught him...
Hi.
Hello, guys-
Excuse me, Mr. Sendo.
How do you feel?
This will be monumental.
Is that the pen you wrote about?
A good friend gave me this.
My lucky charm.
It's mightier than a sword.
I'm nervous.
We 'm W seconds.
8, 7, 6...
5, 4, 3...
?I am the Murderer.?
The national best seller.
10 days ago someone tried to kill him.
Here's our special guest.
The author.
The strangler who can't be tried.
This is his first live interview.
In 1995, 5 innocent people
were murdered.
There was no arrest and the
statute of limitations expired.
Then a book appeared,
apparently written by the killer.
Where's Makimura?
Daring even for a serial killer
Sonezaki taunts the public.
Who is he?
22 years ago, your host, Toshio Sendo
probed the case
and will give you answers!
Thanks for coming, Mr. Sonezaki.
You met the press, the victims' families
and had a book signing.
You're very busy.
Why come out now
after hiding for 22 years?
I was not hiding.
The police didn't find me.
Right.
I read, ?I am the Murderer.?
Why did you decide
to write a book?
To reveal the truth
and to get retribution.
You could've
turned yourself in.
Instead of going to the police,
you wrote a book.
You can't be tried now and
your crimes can't be redeemed.
Sometimes a chance is
only obvious after it passed.
I lost my chance
to redeem my crimes.
I realized it in hindsight.
The victims' families
must have wanted
answers badly.
Is that why you
wrote the memoir?
The media should
have written it.
But you didn't.
I should say, you couldn't.
So I had to
write it myself.
I see.
22 years ago, I covered the case
as a freelance journalist.
I visited the 5 murder scenes
and learned what I could
about the victims' families.
And one thing puzzles me.
There he goes.
Some facts are omitted
in your book.
For example one murder
was missed out.
Detective Makimura was on your case.
Did you know about his sister?
Her name's Rika.
She lived in Kobe back then.
After the earthquake
she moved in with her brother
in Tokyo.
The serial strangler was active
at that time.
...columns of smoke are everywhere...
...the freeway overpass collapsed...
...a huge earthquake in Kobe.
Rika!
Hey, Ko!
Good, you're OK.
I'm not! My apartment was flattened.
It's still a mess...
My boyfriend.
Hello, I'm Takumi Onodera.
We were living together.
Sorry to tag along.
You protected Rika.
I did nothing...
Let's go eat.
You must be hungry.
Thanks for having us.
I'm sorry to...
Come on in!
Don't worry.
He's never home anyway.
I did the chores at our
old place.
What a mess!
Use that room.
Why's your underwear here?
You knew that we were coming!
She stood in for Mom
after our parents died.
We'll move soon...
Forget it! It's been hard on you.
Rika nursed earthquake victims
and it was traumatic.
Rika!
It's going to be OK.
Look at me.
It's OK, we're in Tokyo.
It's safe here.
I'm off to work.
I'll be back late.
- Okay.
- Stay with her.
Why not, Rika?
It's time to move on!
People in Kobe are suffering...
This was always our plan.
I'll make you happy.
So...
Will you marry me?
During the quake...
I hid under a desk.
If I'd come out...
Like nurses are trained to do...
I could've saved the old patients...
I don't deserve to be happy!
Give it time.
You'll help people one day.
You'll live...
with me.
Sorry"
Rika Makimura was engaged
and was beginning her new life.
But there was an incident
and she disappeared.
You said you left an explosive at
Makimura's apartment.
Rika must have been there
but that's not in your book.
5 murders completed my artwork.
- Artwork?
- Yes.
Let's move on.
About 3 hours ago
a video was uploaded
on a video sharing site.
The title is...
I am the killer.
Also
a comment was left.
?That Sonezaki is a fraud.?
?It was me and I'll prove it.?
Let's see what proof
the video offers.
That's it.
It appears to be a record
of the 5th murder
taped from a nearby rooftop.
It shows Detective Makimura's place
where the explosion was.
A woman is seen very briefly.
Doesn't she look like Rika Makimura?
Well, Mr. Sonezaki?
I know nothing about the sister.
?My first rule when I kill
is to have a close person?
?as a witness.?
In this case
wasn't Rika supposed to
watch her brother die?
Or maybe...
you don't know anything about it.
The video is probably fake.
Maybe someone is
after attention.
Have you even bothered
to verify it?
I guess not.
I question
your ethical standards.
I gave details
that the police didn't disclose.
Things only I knew.
But something important is missing.
Why did the offender do it?
The motive!
Why didn't you disclose that?
Perhaps...
you have a good reason.
Please read the book more carefully.
It's all in there.
22 years ago
I pursued this case avidly and
saw a dark abyss.
Why repeat a senseless crime?
Why does a man turn into
a monster?
Makimura.
It's time.
Makimura!
We lost.
Our time's up.
Our time's up...?
It can't be true!
Sorry, Taki...
Damn it!
Takumi.
Makimura...
So it's over?
The police will stop looking for
the offender?
I never stopped looking for her.
The ring I gave Rika...
I found it here.
Here...
But...
Rika's not here.
No Rika...
Takumi.
- I won't...
- Why did she deserve this?
She's done nothing...
She helped people in the quake!
Coming to Tokyo was my idea...
Why wasn't I there to protect her?
The video's uploader
contacted the station.
He wants a chance to prove himself.
He says he'll present more proof
on live TV.
On one condition.
He wants Mr. Sonezaki and
Detective Makimura, the officer
on the case
in the studio too.
To make this happen
we'll invite the two men
to the studio.
?Resignation?
You didn't tell us.
Sorry.
Taki, your partner 22 years ago...
He was my mentor when I was a rookie.
Do what you must.
I'll hold onto this.
I didn't know your sister is missing.
You want him alive to
find out what happened to her.
I understand how you feel.
But...
hatred can spread over generations.
22 years ago
Shoko was killed before my eyes.
She was a single mom.
She was raising a 4-year-old kid
when we met.
The punk who tried to kill Sonezaki...
He's her son.
No mom wants her kid in the mafia.
What would you know?
- I want to know who he is.
- And his motives.
We want the truth.
The law can't get him
but the media can.
I'd like to see them
expose the killer's secrets.
Sendo will make that
troublemaker accountable.
?Special Bulletin?
The statute of limitations ran out
on the Tokyo Strangler murders.
Finding the killer won't get back
lives or lost time.
But
it's our duty to cast light
into the darkness.
I hope we'll get to the truth tonight.
Let's welcome our guests.
Masato Sonezaki and
Detective Makimura.
Go on, sit down.
Hello?
Chief, it's the Deputy.
Chief!
Let's begin.
Let's cut to the chase.
Did you see the video?
Yes.
The video
appears to be a
record of the 5th crime.
An'! Opinions?
I'd rather not answer.
Is it classified?
So you won't talk about your sister?
What a joke.
What's to protect
besides your small salary
and pride?
Well?
It didn't lead to an arrest.
We know that.
5 people died because
you failed.
Including your old partner.
And now gentlemen,
we have one more guest.
The uploader of the video.
That's it!
The guest's arrived!
The car's here!
The underground parking lot.
Call the elevator!
The guest has arrived.
Get ready to play this.
This way.
Please.
Mic test, please.
Get the DVD player up!
A DVD?
- Hurry.
- We're on it.
Mic ready.
Go ahead.
The guest is here.
Now we're all here.
Please sit down.
The guest's voice
will be modulated for the interview.
And the mask?
Yes.
I want to live a quiet, normal life.
I mean...
Who'd show their face?
Take it off.
You're as suspect as an
anonymous net user.
Don't pan the net!
You live-streamed on the net!
Wait.
Why did you want to
go on live TV?
Because of him.
This fraud claims to be the killer
for financial gain.
I'll expose him.
Did you record the video
you uploaded?
I wanted to document it.
It could easily be faked.
It's not proof.
There's more video.
Watch it and you'll learn
I'm the killer.
Okay.'!-
Play the disk please.
Hold on, we're checking the contents.
Sir, this isn't...
No way in hell!
We can't put this on air.
We can't show this!
We checked the contents
and decided
not to broadcast it.
Why? What are we going to do?
I have an idea.
We'll play it in the studio
for us to see.
We apologize for not showing it
to the viewers but
it's in the pursuit of truth.
Is he serious?
Capture their reactions.
Audio?
No! No sound.
OK, let's play it.
So far it's the same.
You said there's more?
Yes.
And it's more exciting.
I'm speechless.
What I saw in the video is just...
too savage.
You...!
Why...?
I said it's a document.
So I can enjoy it over and over.
Enjoy...?
Yes.
OK?
Only the killer could tape this.
I'm the one. You got that?
Huh?
Let me go!
That was on the air!
Stop him!
NOW!
Calm down!
Watch out!
Don't miss him!
Let go!
Calm down!
- Go to a break.
- Hold it!
Get Mr. Sendo! Follow him!
You abused my pen!
Explain, Mr. Sonezaki.
Tell us the truth!
Yes...
You have to!
Right here, right now!
Come on!
L---
I'm not the killer.
I didn't write the book.
Who wrote it then?
I did.
This book...
I wrote it.
From the police reports.
And he...
He was Rika's boyfriend.
Takumi Onodera.
Detective...
Explain.
7 years ago, on the night the statute
of limitations expired...
Takumi tried to kill himself
by jumping off the roof.
He survived the fall
but he made other attempts.
But I didn't let him.
Weeks later
he told me...
Makimura.
'I'll---
change my identity.
To catch the killer
I'll reinvent myself
completely.
Fortunately...
a surgeon helped us.
Takumi changed his face
and identity.
The killer's signature was
strangulation
and witnesses to the murder.
He never deviated.
The killer's profile suggested
he was meticulous.
He loved attention.
A new body.
In his apartment.
He tried to kill me
for shooting him.
He's vengeful.
A perfectionist.
So
we planned the memoir.
It would rouse the public.
It'd be a hit
and provoke the killer.
What does he do?
Who is he?
When will he come?
3 o'clock. When the show starts.
Director!
To get the killer's attention
we did all kind of stunts to
get media exposure.
OK, hit me.
Now.
Why you...!
The case is untriable
but we didn't give up.
We'd do anything
to find Rika and catch the killer!
At any cost!
That was our vow 7 years ago.
Where's Rika?
Wait! OK, I'll tell you the truth!
So slow down!
I'm not the killer!
I'm not him!
I did this for money.
Someone hired me to do this.
I was paid to upload the video.
I was told my safety was guaranteed,
damn it...
You're a decoy!
Yes. And I know nothing!
We wrote emails.
I bet he used a SIM-free phone.
He sent money to a PO Box
I set up.
He has no gun wound.
Get a close-up!
Don't!
Get the cameras away!
No! Don't!
Security!
On Sendo.
Catch him!
We have an unexpected outcome.
2 men claiming to be
the strangler
are both frauds.
One of them is
the fianc? of the strangler's possible
6th victim.
The case is once again
a dark mystery.
Can the light of journalism
shine a little light
on the truth?
We'll continue to try
to solve the mystery.
Have a nice weekend.
Oops!
OK, I'll be right there.
And cut.
You got it?
Yes, I did.
I'm interviewing Mr. Sendo in 2 days.
Boy, I'm nervous...
Did you give me the map for
the interview location?
Yes, this morning.
- I lost it?
- Oh, please.
You always do that!
Make your own map.
The video...
That's the first lead
we've had in 22 years.
Let's not give up.
Give up? Are you joking?
7 years ago I jumped from here
and died.
I'd die again for Rika.
I'll find him and kill him.
Takumi!
I'm the one. You got that?
Doctor.
Tell me...
Do traumatized people
ever re-enact the trauma
that affected them?
Where are you going?
I have one last favor.
Ask no questions.
Come back in one piece.
Takumi ...
Makimura, you better sleep.
So you'll be functional.
The statute's run out anyway.
What?
What did you say?
Your phone.
Your phone's buzzing!
Makimura!
Makimura.
So he didn't tell you his plan...
Where is he headed?
The GPS says he's...
on Kan-etsu expressway.
Makimura!
Don't be reckless!
I owe you one.
Huh?
Makimura!
Thanks for today.
Sorry about the wait.
This is an impressive second house!
I hardly come here.
With the show and all...
Thank you, sir.
Mr. Sendo, you took all
these photos?
Yes.
Get a pan.
The trophies!
And these photos?
From my war correspondence days.
I traveled the world,
hoping to be a hotshot journalist.
Go wider.
Sir, in your book
you wrote about
life-threatening experiences.
I felt death up close.
And you almost died?
Right...
Well...
I met a young German
journalist in the Middle East.
We became close.
We covered stories together.
At one point
armed insurgents captured us.
They detained us in a pitch dark
bunker for days.
And my German friend...
got killed before my eyes.
I knew I'd be next so I gave up.
I waited...
but I was released.
Why me?
How did you become an anchor?
It was after I wrote the
Tokyo Strangler story.
That show was amazing!
I visited the murder scenes
every day.
I ate with the victims' families...
I got up so close.
I'd just returned to Japan
so I was desperate.
I can't do that again.
Did you tell anyone
where we are?
No...
I'm sorry...
Come to think of it
you were the first to react
to the memoir.
I described the case
as if it was my artwork
and that irritated you.
Were you angered
that I took credit for
your murders?
You said on your show...
Rika Makimura was engaged
and was beginning her new life.
Remember that?
That struck me as odd.
Only Makimura knew
we were engaged.
So
who else knew about it?
Only the man
who took this off Rika's finger.
23 years ago you were detained
by terrorists.
Your friend was strangled to death.
It scarred you psychologically.
You returned to Japan
but I guess the trauma haunted you.
It was just a hunch but...
this confirmed it.
You recorded all your murders.
Where's Rika?
What did you do to her?
On the show, you slipped the pen
in my hand
so I'd kill him on camera.
You tried to make me the real killer.
But
I should have stabbed you.
Why are you smiling?
Is something funny?
It's curious...
It really is!
I got to see your unique face
22 years later!
You're my reflection
in the mirror!
We're the same!
Your life made no sense
after you lost someone important.
Am I right?
When it makes no sense
we'd do anything
to fill the void.
Anything at all!
Detective Makimura, the hospital
director and the yakuza boss.
And the little girl, too.
They worked so hard!
But
none of them beats you.
You changed your face
and identity!
You did well!
A masterpiece.
What about Rika?
You saw the video.
I killed her
and buried her.
You want to kill me?
I bet you do.
Go on.
Good.
But don't stab me.
It's ugly.
By the way'!
Your fianc?e was
the worst.
Before she died,
she told me something.
?With all the casualties of the earthquake?
?I should've died.?
She didn't feel entitled to be happy.
She actually said that she
wanted to die.
What a turnoff!
She really turned me off.
Killing a person with
no will to live
won't redeem me.
Then again
killing her
made you who you are today.
So
it was worth it.
That's it.
Go on, strangle me.
Pull it!
Tape it!
Get these moments!
Act like a pro!
Where's Sonezaki?
The basement!
Takumi ...
Makimura.
He killed Rika.
He is the strangler.
Makimura, let's kill him.
He should die.
He's right.
I should
have died...
in the bunker.
Takumi.
He can be legally punished.
No.
He's still triable.
No...
When I saw the video
I noticed it.
You can see Tokyo Tower
from the rooftop.
See that?
Makimura, you better sleep.
The statute's run out anyway.
What?
Tokyo Tower's lights go
off at midnight.
The lights went off here...
When he killed her
it was past midnight.
The day the statute of limitations
was made obsolete
in Japan.
So what?
Law... Capital punishment...
They don't bother me.
I was supposed to have died
that day.
I've been waiting to die.
Shut up!
Just like
her.
Your fianc?e with no will to live.
Don't!
Takumi!
I'll have to punish you...!
Good, choke me harder!
Like I strangled your girl!
If you didn't exist
Rika would've...
Takumi! Killing him won't
bring Rika back!
Harder! Harder!
Takumi!
Kill me.
Kill me.
Kill me.
Please kill me.
Come on...
Breaking news on the
Tokyo Strangler case.
A search conducted at
the suspect's second house
has turned up what might be
Rika Makimura's remains.
DNA tests are underway.
It's possible that Rika Makimura's murder
has no statute of limitations.
Investigations have resumed.
The suspect's attorney claims that
he has diminished capacity.
Article 39 of the criminal law
will be the focus of his trial.
Right...
Ever since
my friend died in the war zone...
Inside me
there was something dark and deep.
It spread through me.
My work was praised.
But it didn't make the darkness
go away.
I felt so lonely.
There was just a small light.
I saw it in
people who were in my circumstances.
Well...
I'll have a lot of time by myself now.
Plenty of time to reflect.
I think I'll write a memoir.
You're off then...
Yes.
So long.
Go on.
I'm sorry.
I...
No, I'm sorry.
Take care, Takumi.
You too, Doctor.
Takumi.
I'll be back for
Rika's memorial.
?Into the Abyss by Toshio Sendo,
Coming out soon?
---
Play one of the best new FPS shooters,
search Steam for PROJECT WARLOCK
...columns of smoke are everywhere.
Due to fires, residents evacuated to parks.
The Kobe freeway overpass collapsed.
A bus is hanging over the edge.
...There are many fires in the city.
I can see flames...
I'm in Kobe's District 7.
A dozen houses have collapsed in the area.
Rescuers are yet to arrive.
Kobe is in ruins!
A huge earthquake...
Tokyo...gas attack...
The coroner says it was strangulation.
Rise!
Salute!
A repeat murderer is at large.
He broke into Yukio Kishi's home last night
and bound his victim.
The method?
Possibly a rope.
Marks on the neck suggest strangulation.
This is the 4th repeat murder.
The police have been criticized
for hiding this fact.
All officers, respond to a crime scene in Adachi.
?The Murder Count is Now 5"
?Strangler at Large?
The New Millennium begins.
?Task Force is Cut Back?
?Unsolved for 10 Years?
The criminal law was revised today,
on April 27, 2010.
?The Statute Expires?
?The Statute Expires?
No statute of limitations for capital crimes.
No statute of limitations for capital crimes.
?Investigation Ends?
?Investigation Ends?
We lost.
We lost.
?Families Upset?
?Families Upset?
Our time's up.
?Families Upset?
It can't be true!
Damn it, stop!
You hear me? Stop now!
NOW!
Slop!
- Makimura!
- Go, go!
Keep going, Kasukabe.
You with the piercing!
'Mm.!
Kasukabe.
Makimura.
Screw you, cops!
You tight with Tachibana yakuza?
Maybe.
You're in with them!
- I don't know.
- Cool it.
Why did you run then?
No mom wants her kid in the mafia.
Go straight for her.
What would you know?
Sir, it's the Chief.
We'll bring you the Tokyo Strangler.
You're missing something huge on TV!
We'll bring you the Tokyo Strangler.
Get back now.
It's his press conference.
It's his press conference.
What about him?
Let him go.
But...
Do you remember the strangler 22 years ago?
The statute of limitations expired on
the Tokyo Strangler case in 1995.
Now the offender's outed himself.
He did!
He wrote an expos? about it...
Excuse me.
Our reporter's at the press conference.
Murakami here.
It's time.
We're about to meet the offender of the cold case.
The atmosphere is tense as we wait to see him.
I'll outline the case.
The murder case...
Just in time!
...the statute of limitations expired
7 years ago today on April 27.
Won't he be arrested though?
Good point. I'll explain.
The statute of limitations was 15 years.
Then in 2010 the law concerning
the statute of limitations was revised.
Now there's no statute of limitations
for capital offenses.
The revision applies to
felonies committed after midnight on April 28, 1995.
Now, back to the Tokyo Strangler case.
The last killing committed
was on April 27, 1995, just a night before the 28th.
The statute of limitations expired
15 years later at midnight on April 27, 2010.
A day before the new law was effective!
Exactly.
If the murder had happened a day later
it would've been triable!
That's the history and we have the perpetrator.
He's here?
The press conference will begin.
The man you failed to arrest 22 years ago.
Members of the press.
Back to your seats so we can begin.
Back to your seats please.
Members of the press, be seated
as we'll soon begin.
It was 1995.
I'd completed my 5 memorable murders
but I was
frustrated.
The incompetent police
had no clue
of where to find me.
As for the media
their theories about me were infantile.
They misled the public.
The case is forgotten and the truth's warped.
Someone must tell the truth
before it's too late.
The police and the media
are misinformed.
I decided to write about it myself.
I'll reveal everything
about the case now.
Adachi, Tokyo January 4, 1995
Makimura.
Yes, sir!
This is your first murder case.
Keep your cool.
When I killed
I made a relative of the victim
or a close person watch me do it.
That's my first rule.
He's bad!
Preferably a member of
the immediate family.
I only permitted one witness
to watch.
Mommy, Daddy! Open the door!
Mommy, Daddy, let me in!
Setagaya, Tokyo February 14, 1995
I had a signature.
I strangled my victims with a rope
from behind.
That's the second rule of
my modus operandi.
The third rule was
to keep the witness alive.
My method was unique
and unprecedented.
I needed the witness to live
so they'd tell the police and media
about my art.
Chuo, Tokyo
March 15, 1995
A victim, dying of strangulation
and a witness who couldn't
stop the murder.
I had two pleasures from one murder.
The thrill was indescribable.
The police finally took notice.
The 4th victim
was Dr. Yamagata's wife.
The police kept the murder
out of the news
in the hope of luring me out.
Nerima, Tokyo
March 31, 1995
The 4th murder
and its conspicuous absence
from the news
was obviously a trap but
Nerima, Tokyo April 6, 1995
was obviously a trap but
Nerima, Tokyo
April 6, 1995
Nerima, Tokyo April 6, 1995 out of
irritation I decided to play their game.
Out of irritation I decided to
play their game.
Will the killer come back here?
He'll be nervous that
it wasn't on the news.
I'll kill him when he shows up.
Don't be silly.
We'll arrest him
and let the law deal with him.
Look!
He's here!
Subject headed north.
Stay on him!
Makimura!
Makimura!
I knew who the 5th victim would be.
The investigator who shot my shoulder.
Detective Makimura.
Detective...Maki...mura
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April
27, 1995 shot my shoulder.
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April 27,
1995 Detective. . . Maki . . .mura
Task Force HQ, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Task Force HQ, Tokyo April 27, 1995
- What's this? - A recorded call.
Cunning cops.
A new body.
I hid it.
The next body.
Detective Makimura.
In his apartment.
Makimura, wait!
Ota, Tokyo
April 27, 1995
Makimura, stop!
Calm down!
Gas!
I'll go first.
Rika...?
Damn it!
Makimura? Are you OK?
Taki?
Taki!
Makimura
get him.
Taki!
Taki!
My modus operandi failed.
The victim and witness
were reversed.
Reluctantly I decided to put a stop
to my serial murders.
22 years have passed.
I waited but the police and the media
failed to find me.
No one understood what was behind
the murders.
So I have to reveal it myself.
I can't be tried.
My chance at legal redemption
has passed.
Telling the truth
is my last duty.
The victims.
Their families.
The frustrated and tired
investigators.
All of you.
My confessional book is
my humble gesture
of retribution.
Pleasure to meet you.
I am the murderer.
?L am the Murderer?
Memoirs of a Murderer
- Monster!
- Stop it!
He killed people!
Let's get him.
He's not triable.
- How's that possible?
- Calm down.
It's an outrage!
What about the surviving families?
How's it legal in this country?
What about freedom of speech?
People can write and publish
what they want.
This man's a felon!
What a smart criminal.
It's a good read.
I bought it.
- He can cash in on it.
- Sure.
- He's my type.
- He's cool.
He's evil but...
- I'm intrigued.
- It's all true.
You didn't buy the book? Buy it!
OK, ready?
Sone's cool!
What does he do?
Who is he?
?Mystery Man, Masato Sonezaki?
?Teidansha Publishers?
?Teidansha Publishers?
Bring us your editor!
?Teidansha Publishers?
Give us Sonezaki!
Where's the editor?
You damned publishers!
I heard that one of the victim's
relatives works here.
There it is.
Hello.
- Is Miharu in?
- She's with the manager.
I'll find her.
If this continues
I'll have to fire you.
Miharu.
What's wrong?
He says I'm obstructing sales.
- Idiot!
- Forget it!
So this is him.
This creep...
He killed my father twice.
22 years ago and then now.
He calls it an expos?!
3 Pages.
He only wrote 3 pages about my father.
It's unbelievable!
How's it possible?
Tell me!
Come on, die!
Why is he alive?
You're the police. Arrest him!
He killed 5!
He killed my father!
Even now
I hear Dad groaning behind the door.
How can they publish
this hideous book?
Why are people interested in it?
Makimura!
Answer me!
It sounds immoral but
I envy Sonezaki.
It's wrong to get rich off
his crimes but...
Sorry to bother you.
The police want you to come in for
a voluntary interview.
They have no legal power.
Ignore them.
How are sales?
It's going to 2nd print. It'll be top
in first-half sales.
That's not enough.
Did you line up the TV interview?
The TV stations are reluctant
to do it live.
?As an editor I'll sell
my soul for your book.?
They're your words.
Your book harmed our company.
Many authors moved to other publishers.
Of course they did.
You and your publisher
knew the nature of my book!
Do anything to sell it.
I put 22 years into it.
...some tragedies go unnoticed.
We should shine a light into
the hidden horrors.
That's the purpose of journalism.
See you tomorrow.
OK, that's a wrap.
Good job.
Thank you.
Nu . Sends .
They're the crew.
We'll be following you around.
Nice to meet you.
- When's the show?
- In November.
You wrote this as
a war correspondent.
- It moved me. It's my bible.
- Thank you.
Let's do a good show.
I'll take that.
Let's have Sonezaki on.
Sorry! Can you stop the camera
for a moment?
Keep taping!
It's a good documentary moment.
Nu . Sends .
The ratings would certainly
be good but...
It's irresponsible to have a
felon on TV.
You're missing the point.
22 years ago
I returned to Japan and
covered the case.
I went over every detail.
That reportage got me this job.
If I ignored him
I'd be denying my origins.
I must meet him.
If the law cannot touch him
we will try him.
I see...
Poor Miharu.
Have you heard of phantom pain?
No.
Say, you lost an arm in the war.
But...
you feel pain
where the missing arm was.
A missing limb can't be treated.
Same goes for the pain
of a surviving family.
I want to kill the killer.
I still want to...
Director!
This is a hospital!
Keep out!
What's on your mind, sir?
That's Dr. Yamagata, one of the
surviving family members.
What's Sonezaki here for?
What will he say?
Doctor.
22 years ago
You saw your wife being killed
by me.
L---
I sincerely apologize.
What the hell...?
You're sorry?
How arrogant!
You...!
Dr. Yamagata!
Makimura...!
Detective Makimura!
What kind of tip is that?
Look! That is Detective Makimura!
He was on the case.
Is it a coincidence?
I'm sorry
for the inconvenience I caused.
How have you been?
Why you...!
Step back!
?Awesome!?
?Cop vs. Strangler!?
Calm down!
Move!
Makimura, cool it!
Let me go!
Calm down, Makimura!
Put the camera away!
Keep that up and we
can't guarantee your safety.
I have to. It's not enough.
The TV show?
You had an offer.
Sendo, the host on News Eyes
wants a live interview.
You're easy to provoke!
Shut up.
Hey, remember the thug we chased?
Tachibana gang?
I had a tip on him.
He might whack someone.
Sonezaki has a book signing...
Line up.
Apologize to the victims' families!
Have your belongings checked
and move on.
Only selected shoppers
will meet the author today.
Please have your belongings checked.
Only the press can take photos.
Move!
Go!
Do we have to protect Sonezaki?
Shut up and drive.
Sir.
Go ahead.
Murderer!
I heard a rumor, Boss Tachibana.
Oh?
Rumors are baseless.
Even if you want revenge,
don't kill him.
He killed your partner.
Sonezaki is not human.
He has no compassion.
So you sent a thug to kill him?
That's just a rumor.
Damn! Step on it.
Thank you.
Thank you!
Can I shake your hand?
The police!
Clear the area!
Makimura!
Get out of my way!
Police! Move it!
- Backup?
- On the way.
Keep the cell on.
Damn, there are too many people!
Talk to me, Kasukabe.
Damn...
Get down!
What do you want?
Exposure.
Stay here!
Sonezaki!
Watch him.
You'd be thrown in jail!
Good!
I want to kill him for Dad.
As payback.
Dad could go to heaven.
Autographs...!
For destroying my family!
Damn him...
Why did you protect him?
Why?
Makimura?
Go.
Miharu.
Go, Miharu.
Go.
Makimura!
Sorry, I...
You're hurt!
Why bother?
Nobody would blame you if he died!
22 years ago I was this close to him
and he escaped.
If I'd caught him...
Hi.
Hello, guys-
Excuse me, Mr. Sendo.
How do you feel?
This will be monumental.
Is that the pen you wrote about?
A good friend gave me this.
My lucky charm.
It's mightier than a sword.
I'm nervous.
We 'm W seconds.
8, 7, 6...
5, 4, 3...
?I am the Murderer.?
The national best seller.
10 days ago someone tried to kill him.
Here's our special guest.
The author.
The strangler who can't be tried.
This is his first live interview.
In 1995, 5 innocent people
were murdered.
There was no arrest and the
statute of limitations expired.
Then a book appeared,
apparently written by the killer.
Where's Makimura?
Daring even for a serial killer
Sonezaki taunts the public.
Who is he?
22 years ago, your host, Toshio Sendo
probed the case
and will give you answers!
Thanks for coming, Mr. Sonezaki.
You met the press, the victims' families
and had a book signing.
You're very busy.
Why come out now
after hiding for 22 years?
I was not hiding.
The police didn't find me.
Right.
I read, ?I am the Murderer.?
Why did you decide
to write a book?
To reveal the truth
and to get retribution.
You could've
turned yourself in.
Instead of going to the police,
you wrote a book.
You can't be tried now and
your crimes can't be redeemed.
Sometimes a chance is
only obvious after it passed.
I lost my chance
to redeem my crimes.
I realized it in hindsight.
The victims' families
must have wanted
answers badly.
Is that why you
wrote the memoir?
The media should
have written it.
But you didn't.
I should say, you couldn't.
So I had to
write it myself.
I see.
22 years ago, I covered the case
as a freelance journalist.
I visited the 5 murder scenes
and learned what I could
about the victims' families.
And one thing puzzles me.
There he goes.
Some facts are omitted
in your book.
For example one murder
was missed out.
Detective Makimura was on your case.
Did you know about his sister?
Her name's Rika.
She lived in Kobe back then.
After the earthquake
she moved in with her brother
in Tokyo.
The serial strangler was active
at that time.
...columns of smoke are everywhere...
...the freeway overpass collapsed...
...a huge earthquake in Kobe.
Rika!
Hey, Ko!
Good, you're OK.
I'm not! My apartment was flattened.
It's still a mess...
My boyfriend.
Hello, I'm Takumi Onodera.
We were living together.
Sorry to tag along.
You protected Rika.
I did nothing...
Let's go eat.
You must be hungry.
Thanks for having us.
I'm sorry to...
Come on in!
Don't worry.
He's never home anyway.
I did the chores at our
old place.
What a mess!
Use that room.
Why's your underwear here?
You knew that we were coming!
She stood in for Mom
after our parents died.
We'll move soon...
Forget it! It's been hard on you.
Rika nursed earthquake victims
and it was traumatic.
Rika!
It's going to be OK.
Look at me.
It's OK, we're in Tokyo.
It's safe here.
I'm off to work.
I'll be back late.
- Okay.
- Stay with her.
Why not, Rika?
It's time to move on!
People in Kobe are suffering...
This was always our plan.
I'll make you happy.
So...
Will you marry me?
During the quake...
I hid under a desk.
If I'd come out...
Like nurses are trained to do...
I could've saved the old patients...
I don't deserve to be happy!
Give it time.
You'll help people one day.
You'll live...
with me.
Sorry"
Rika Makimura was engaged
and was beginning her new life.
But there was an incident
and she disappeared.
You said you left an explosive at
Makimura's apartment.
Rika must have been there
but that's not in your book.
5 murders completed my artwork.
- Artwork?
- Yes.
Let's move on.
About 3 hours ago
a video was uploaded
on a video sharing site.
The title is...
I am the killer.
Also
a comment was left.
?That Sonezaki is a fraud.?
?It was me and I'll prove it.?
Let's see what proof
the video offers.
That's it.
It appears to be a record
of the 5th murder
taped from a nearby rooftop.
It shows Detective Makimura's place
where the explosion was.
A woman is seen very briefly.
Doesn't she look like Rika Makimura?
Well, Mr. Sonezaki?
I know nothing about the sister.
?My first rule when I kill
is to have a close person?
?as a witness.?
In this case
wasn't Rika supposed to
watch her brother die?
Or maybe...
you don't know anything about it.
The video is probably fake.
Maybe someone is
after attention.
Have you even bothered
to verify it?
I guess not.
I question
your ethical standards.
I gave details
that the police didn't disclose.
Things only I knew.
But something important is missing.
Why did the offender do it?
The motive!
Why didn't you disclose that?
Perhaps...
you have a good reason.
Please read the book more carefully.
It's all in there.
22 years ago
I pursued this case avidly and
saw a dark abyss.
Why repeat a senseless crime?
Why does a man turn into
a monster?
Makimura.
It's time.
Makimura!
We lost.
Our time's up.
Our time's up...?
It can't be true!
Sorry, Taki...
Damn it!
Takumi.
Makimura...
So it's over?
The police will stop looking for
the offender?
I never stopped looking for her.
The ring I gave Rika...
I found it here.
Here...
But...
Rika's not here.
No Rika...
Takumi.
- I won't...
- Why did she deserve this?
She's done nothing...
She helped people in the quake!
Coming to Tokyo was my idea...
Why wasn't I there to protect her?
The video's uploader
contacted the station.
He wants a chance to prove himself.
He says he'll present more proof
on live TV.
On one condition.
He wants Mr. Sonezaki and
Detective Makimura, the officer
on the case
in the studio too.
To make this happen
we'll invite the two men
to the studio.
?Resignation?
You didn't tell us.
Sorry.
Taki, your partner 22 years ago...
He was my mentor when I was a rookie.
Do what you must.
I'll hold onto this.
I didn't know your sister is missing.
You want him alive to
find out what happened to her.
I understand how you feel.
But...
hatred can spread over generations.
22 years ago
Shoko was killed before my eyes.
She was a single mom.
She was raising a 4-year-old kid
when we met.
The punk who tried to kill Sonezaki...
He's her son.
No mom wants her kid in the mafia.
What would you know?
- I want to know who he is.
- And his motives.
We want the truth.
The law can't get him
but the media can.
I'd like to see them
expose the killer's secrets.
Sendo will make that
troublemaker accountable.
?Special Bulletin?
The statute of limitations ran out
on the Tokyo Strangler murders.
Finding the killer won't get back
lives or lost time.
But
it's our duty to cast light
into the darkness.
I hope we'll get to the truth tonight.
Let's welcome our guests.
Masato Sonezaki and
Detective Makimura.
Go on, sit down.
Hello?
Chief, it's the Deputy.
Chief!
Let's begin.
Let's cut to the chase.
Did you see the video?
Yes.
The video
appears to be a
record of the 5th crime.
An'! Opinions?
I'd rather not answer.
Is it classified?
So you won't talk about your sister?
What a joke.
What's to protect
besides your small salary
and pride?
Well?
It didn't lead to an arrest.
We know that.
5 people died because
you failed.
Including your old partner.
And now gentlemen,
we have one more guest.
The uploader of the video.
That's it!
The guest's arrived!
The car's here!
The underground parking lot.
Call the elevator!
The guest has arrived.
Get ready to play this.
This way.
Please.
Mic test, please.
Get the DVD player up!
A DVD?
- Hurry.
- We're on it.
Mic ready.
Go ahead.
The guest is here.
Now we're all here.
Please sit down.
The guest's voice
will be modulated for the interview.
And the mask?
Yes.
I want to live a quiet, normal life.
I mean...
Who'd show their face?
Take it off.
You're as suspect as an
anonymous net user.
Don't pan the net!
You live-streamed on the net!
Wait.
Why did you want to
go on live TV?
Because of him.
This fraud claims to be the killer
for financial gain.
I'll expose him.
Did you record the video
you uploaded?
I wanted to document it.
It could easily be faked.
It's not proof.
There's more video.
Watch it and you'll learn
I'm the killer.
Okay.'!-
Play the disk please.
Hold on, we're checking the contents.
Sir, this isn't...
No way in hell!
We can't put this on air.
We can't show this!
We checked the contents
and decided
not to broadcast it.
Why? What are we going to do?
I have an idea.
We'll play it in the studio
for us to see.
We apologize for not showing it
to the viewers but
it's in the pursuit of truth.
Is he serious?
Capture their reactions.
Audio?
No! No sound.
OK, let's play it.
So far it's the same.
You said there's more?
Yes.
And it's more exciting.
I'm speechless.
What I saw in the video is just...
too savage.
You...!
Why...?
I said it's a document.
So I can enjoy it over and over.
Enjoy...?
Yes.
OK?
Only the killer could tape this.
I'm the one. You got that?
Huh?
Let me go!
That was on the air!
Stop him!
NOW!
Calm down!
Watch out!
Don't miss him!
Let go!
Calm down!
- Go to a break.
- Hold it!
Get Mr. Sendo! Follow him!
You abused my pen!
Explain, Mr. Sonezaki.
Tell us the truth!
Yes...
You have to!
Right here, right now!
Come on!
L---
I'm not the killer.
I didn't write the book.
Who wrote it then?
I did.
This book...
I wrote it.
From the police reports.
And he...
He was Rika's boyfriend.
Takumi Onodera.
Detective...
Explain.
7 years ago, on the night the statute
of limitations expired...
Takumi tried to kill himself
by jumping off the roof.
He survived the fall
but he made other attempts.
But I didn't let him.
Weeks later
he told me...
Makimura.
'I'll---
change my identity.
To catch the killer
I'll reinvent myself
completely.
Fortunately...
a surgeon helped us.
Takumi changed his face
and identity.
The killer's signature was
strangulation
and witnesses to the murder.
He never deviated.
The killer's profile suggested
he was meticulous.
He loved attention.
A new body.
In his apartment.
He tried to kill me
for shooting him.
He's vengeful.
A perfectionist.
So
we planned the memoir.
It would rouse the public.
It'd be a hit
and provoke the killer.
What does he do?
Who is he?
When will he come?
3 o'clock. When the show starts.
Director!
To get the killer's attention
we did all kind of stunts to
get media exposure.
OK, hit me.
Now.
Why you...!
The case is untriable
but we didn't give up.
We'd do anything
to find Rika and catch the killer!
At any cost!
That was our vow 7 years ago.
Where's Rika?
Wait! OK, I'll tell you the truth!
So slow down!
I'm not the killer!
I'm not him!
I did this for money.
Someone hired me to do this.
I was paid to upload the video.
I was told my safety was guaranteed,
damn it...
You're a decoy!
Yes. And I know nothing!
We wrote emails.
I bet he used a SIM-free phone.
He sent money to a PO Box
I set up.
He has no gun wound.
Get a close-up!
Don't!
Get the cameras away!
No! Don't!
Security!
On Sendo.
Catch him!
We have an unexpected outcome.
2 men claiming to be
the strangler
are both frauds.
One of them is
the fianc? of the strangler's possible
6th victim.
The case is once again
a dark mystery.
Can the light of journalism
shine a little light
on the truth?
We'll continue to try
to solve the mystery.
Have a nice weekend.
Oops!
OK, I'll be right there.
And cut.
You got it?
Yes, I did.
I'm interviewing Mr. Sendo in 2 days.
Boy, I'm nervous...
Did you give me the map for
the interview location?
Yes, this morning.
- I lost it?
- Oh, please.
You always do that!
Make your own map.
The video...
That's the first lead
we've had in 22 years.
Let's not give up.
Give up? Are you joking?
7 years ago I jumped from here
and died.
I'd die again for Rika.
I'll find him and kill him.
Takumi!
I'm the one. You got that?
Doctor.
Tell me...
Do traumatized people
ever re-enact the trauma
that affected them?
Where are you going?
I have one last favor.
Ask no questions.
Come back in one piece.
Takumi ...
Makimura, you better sleep.
So you'll be functional.
The statute's run out anyway.
What?
What did you say?
Your phone.
Your phone's buzzing!
Makimura!
Makimura.
So he didn't tell you his plan...
Where is he headed?
The GPS says he's...
on Kan-etsu expressway.
Makimura!
Don't be reckless!
I owe you one.
Huh?
Makimura!
Thanks for today.
Sorry about the wait.
This is an impressive second house!
I hardly come here.
With the show and all...
Thank you, sir.
Mr. Sendo, you took all
these photos?
Yes.
Get a pan.
The trophies!
And these photos?
From my war correspondence days.
I traveled the world,
hoping to be a hotshot journalist.
Go wider.
Sir, in your book
you wrote about
life-threatening experiences.
I felt death up close.
And you almost died?
Right...
Well...
I met a young German
journalist in the Middle East.
We became close.
We covered stories together.
At one point
armed insurgents captured us.
They detained us in a pitch dark
bunker for days.
And my German friend...
got killed before my eyes.
I knew I'd be next so I gave up.
I waited...
but I was released.
Why me?
How did you become an anchor?
It was after I wrote the
Tokyo Strangler story.
That show was amazing!
I visited the murder scenes
every day.
I ate with the victims' families...
I got up so close.
I'd just returned to Japan
so I was desperate.
I can't do that again.
Did you tell anyone
where we are?
No...
I'm sorry...
Come to think of it
you were the first to react
to the memoir.
I described the case
as if it was my artwork
and that irritated you.
Were you angered
that I took credit for
your murders?
You said on your show...
Rika Makimura was engaged
and was beginning her new life.
Remember that?
That struck me as odd.
Only Makimura knew
we were engaged.
So
who else knew about it?
Only the man
who took this off Rika's finger.
23 years ago you were detained
by terrorists.
Your friend was strangled to death.
It scarred you psychologically.
You returned to Japan
but I guess the trauma haunted you.
It was just a hunch but...
this confirmed it.
You recorded all your murders.
Where's Rika?
What did you do to her?
On the show, you slipped the pen
in my hand
so I'd kill him on camera.
You tried to make me the real killer.
But
I should have stabbed you.
Why are you smiling?
Is something funny?
It's curious...
It really is!
I got to see your unique face
22 years later!
You're my reflection
in the mirror!
We're the same!
Your life made no sense
after you lost someone important.
Am I right?
When it makes no sense
we'd do anything
to fill the void.
Anything at all!
Detective Makimura, the hospital
director and the yakuza boss.
And the little girl, too.
They worked so hard!
But
none of them beats you.
You changed your face
and identity!
You did well!
A masterpiece.
What about Rika?
You saw the video.
I killed her
and buried her.
You want to kill me?
I bet you do.
Go on.
Good.
But don't stab me.
It's ugly.
By the way'!
Your fianc?e was
the worst.
Before she died,
she told me something.
?With all the casualties of the earthquake?
?I should've died.?
She didn't feel entitled to be happy.
She actually said that she
wanted to die.
What a turnoff!
She really turned me off.
Killing a person with
no will to live
won't redeem me.
Then again
killing her
made you who you are today.
So
it was worth it.
That's it.
Go on, strangle me.
Pull it!
Tape it!
Get these moments!
Act like a pro!
Where's Sonezaki?
The basement!
Takumi ...
Makimura.
He killed Rika.
He is the strangler.
Makimura, let's kill him.
He should die.
He's right.
I should
have died...
in the bunker.
Takumi.
He can be legally punished.
No.
He's still triable.
No...
When I saw the video
I noticed it.
You can see Tokyo Tower
from the rooftop.
See that?
Makimura, you better sleep.
The statute's run out anyway.
What?
Tokyo Tower's lights go
off at midnight.
The lights went off here...
When he killed her
it was past midnight.
The day the statute of limitations
was made obsolete
in Japan.
So what?
Law... Capital punishment...
They don't bother me.
I was supposed to have died
that day.
I've been waiting to die.
Shut up!
Just like
her.
Your fianc?e with no will to live.
Don't!
Takumi!
I'll have to punish you...!
Good, choke me harder!
Like I strangled your girl!
If you didn't exist
Rika would've...
Takumi! Killing him won't
bring Rika back!
Harder! Harder!
Takumi!
Kill me.
Kill me.
Kill me.
Please kill me.
Come on...
Breaking news on the
Tokyo Strangler case.
A search conducted at
the suspect's second house
has turned up what might be
Rika Makimura's remains.
DNA tests are underway.
It's possible that Rika Makimura's murder
has no statute of limitations.
Investigations have resumed.
The suspect's attorney claims that
he has diminished capacity.
Article 39 of the criminal law
will be the focus of his trial.
Right...
Ever since
my friend died in the war zone...
Inside me
there was something dark and deep.
It spread through me.
My work was praised.
But it didn't make the darkness
go away.
I felt so lonely.
There was just a small light.
I saw it in
people who were in my circumstances.
Well...
I'll have a lot of time by myself now.
Plenty of time to reflect.
I think I'll write a memoir.
You're off then...
Yes.
So long.
Go on.
I'm sorry.
I...
No, I'm sorry.
Take care, Takumi.
You too, Doctor.
Takumi.
I'll be back for
Rika's memorial.
?Into the Abyss by Toshio Sendo,
Coming out soon?