Violent Cop: More Than Just Violence?

Okay, so I finally got around to watching "Violent Cop" and wow, Takeshi Kitano (as both director and actor!) really commits to the bit, doesn't he? I went in expecting sheer brutality, and while there's definitely that (the scene in the police station with the suspect...oof), I was surprised by how much the character dynamics stuck with me. Kitano's portrayal of Azuma is fascinating. He's clearly a deeply troubled guy, completely detached, and his sense of justice is...well, let's just say unique. The quiet moments, like when he's just staring blankly or interacting with his sister, were way more impactful than I anticipated. There's a fragility there that contrasts sharply with his outward violence, and I found myself oddly invested in his fate, even as he was making all the wrong choices. Did anyone else feel like the plot almost took a backseat to Azuma's inner turmoil? Speaking of choices, the ending... Did anyone else find it kinda abrupt? Like, I get the thematic resonance and the cyclical nature of violence, but I was hoping for a bit more closure, especially regarding his sister. Maybe that's the point? Maybe there is no easy resolution for a character like Azuma. It just leaves you feeling... unsettled, which I guess is the whole point. Anyway, I'm curious to hear what others thought! Did anyone else pick up on that undercurrent of sadness in Azuma's demeanor, or am I just projecting? Also, any recommendations for other Kitano films with similarly complex characters? I'm hooked! (And sorry for any typos, I'm typing this on my phone lol).