The Cannibal That Walked Free is a chilling and disturbing documentary that offers a glimpse into the twisted mind of one of Japan’s most notorious killers, Issei Sagawa. Produced by Visual Voodoo for Channel Five, the film takes us on a journey through Sagawa’s life, exploring his cannibalistic tendencies, his bizarre celebrity status, and the psychological factors that led him to commit his horrific crimes.
The documentary starts with the story of Sagawa’s early life, growing up in Japan with a fascination for the Western world. He was a bright and intelligent child, but also a loner who struggled to fit in. His obsession with Western culture eventually led him to study in France, where he met his victim, a fellow student named Renee Hartevelt.
Sagawa’s account of what happened next is chilling. He describes how he shot and killed Hartevelt, then proceeded to dismember and eat parts of her body. The details are gruesome, and the documentary doesn’t shy away from showing them. It’s a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk within the human psyche.
What’s perhaps even more disturbing than Sagawa’s crimes is the bizarre celebrity status that he attained in Japan. After being declared legally insane and unfit for trial in France, Sagawa was deported back to Japan, where he was released from custody and allowed to walk free. He became an instant celebrity, appearing on talk shows, writing books, and even working as a restaurant critic.
The Cannibal That Walked Free explores the twisted fascination that the Japanese public had with Sagawa. It’s a surreal and unsettling look at how a murderer can become a pop culture icon. The documentary features interviews with Sagawa himself, as well as with those who knew him, and explores the bizarre psychology that led to his notoriety.
One of the most unsettling aspects of the film is how it portrays Sagawa as a somewhat sympathetic figure. We see how he struggles with his desires and how he feels tormented by the memories of what he’s done. It’s a reminder that even the most monstrous among us are still human beings with complex emotions and inner turmoil.
The Cannibal That Walked Free is not an easy watch. It’s a dark and disturbing exploration of the depths of human depravity. But it’s also a fascinating look at how fame and celebrity can be twisted into something grotesque. It’s a film that will stick with you long after the credits roll.
