ZDF Enterprises is proud to announce the beginning of the filming of the one-hour documentary “The Last Yakuza” (1 x 52’ HD), the first documentary ever to feature exclusive interviews with the underworld bosses of the Yakuza, the most highly organized crime syndicate in the world. After spending several years researching their topic, the team members of the Wiesbaden production company Sound & Vision finally won the trust of the bosses of various Yakuza clans, and gained unique access to them. The worldwide distribution of this exceptional documentary will be handled by ZDF Enterprises.

Who are the Yakuza? Are they the modern Robin Hoods of Japan? Or are they simply criminals? To learn the truth, the film team plunged into the underworld of Tokyo, Kyoto and Fukuoka, where high-ranking clan members gave surprisingly open interviews and insights into their lives. The viewer sees how a Japanese “common man” transforms himself into a Yakuza, and experiences what it is like to have people bow and step aside for you on the sidewalk.

The Yakuza may rule an underworld of criminality, violence and corruption, but this world is also governed by strict codes of conduct, loyalty, deep credos of honor and respect. Among the unforgettable moments of this program are a frank conversation with the wife of a clan boss, who speaks openly about being disowned by her family, a fraternization ceremony between a godfather and a long-time acquaintance, and a view from the “other” side, the Yakuza’s business partners. The film team repeatedly had to face down dangerous situations, especially confrontations between the Yakuza and the police. Luck was on their side. The taboo-breaking TV documentary “The Last Yakuza” will be broadcast around the world in 2011.