Muscle (1989): cast, story & where to watch
1989 · Film · ★ 4.8
Released in 1989, Muscle is a thriller, drama and horror film directed by Hisayasu Satô, running about 58 minutes.
What it’s about. Ryuzaki, an editor of Muscle Magazine, which features photographs of men with sculpted bodies, becomes involved with a man named Kitami; their affair soon becomes dominated by sadomasochistic games, with a horrid result. Jump ahead one year, Ryuzaki is released from jail and goes in search of Kitami, perhaps to make amends. The films of Pasolini, especially "Salò," dominate Ryuzaki's imagination; he works sometimes at the Lunatic Theatre, which shows films about rough trade; and, he becomes involved with a couple into BDSM. Will Ryuzaki find Kitami, and what will happen if he does?
Who’s in it. Muscle stars Simon Kumai as Kitami, You Suzuki as Chida, Kiyomi Itō as Yoko and June as Hustler with long hair, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 4.8/10, Muscle has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Muscle page.
If you liked it. Fans of Muscle tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Muscle (1989)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Muscle change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Muscle worth watching?
- Muscle holds an audience score of 4.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller, drama and horror. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Muscle?
- Muscle stars Simon Kumai, You Suzuki, Kiyomi Itō, June and Mabze.
- When was Muscle released?
- Muscle was released in 1989, with a runtime of about 58 minutes.