The lead in this film is played by Viggo Mortensen, who gives a nice all around performance. Though he doesn't have the bulk of screen time, Ryo Ishibashi steals this one with his terrific skills. Video American Yakuza is presented in a full frame transfer, which seems to be an open matte version of the theatrical aspect ratio. I've always seen this on television, so perhaps it was shot full frame and then matted for a theatrical release, who knows. I think this visual presentation seems like a broadcast version of the film, though a little sharper in the details.
Some edge enhancement is seen at times, but no serious compression problems hamper the transfer.
There is also some grain on the print used, but nothing that extreme to be honest. Colors seem natural and bright, while contrast is stark and well balanced. Imagine a very sharp television image and that sums up this transfer. The included 2.0 surround track is very good, but some of these action sequences simply plead for a full 5.1 remix. But as it stands, this version still tackles all the material and emerges in fine form, I doubt anyone will find this mix disappointing.