Cast
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Akiko Hyûga
as Etsuko
Yûko Asuka
as Ayako
Tsutomu Akashi
as Okiyama
Yōko Azusa
as Mitsuko
Kazuyo Ezaki
as Keiko
Ichiro Kijima
as Managing Director Ôtomo
Yoshie Kitsuda
as Mrs. Kuga
Mitsuo Kobayashi
as Matsuki
Kenji Shimamura
as Section chief Asai
Akira Shioji
as Tagawa
Miki Yamaji
as Highschool Girl
Kōji Yashiro
as CEO Kuga
Yuki Yoshizawa
as Kyôko
Crew
Director
- Nobuaki Shirai
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Shinnyû Shain: (Maruhi) OL Ôoku Monogatari represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Nobuaki Shirai brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Shinnyû Shain: (Maruhi) OL Ôoku Monogatari took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 67 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Shinnyû Shain: (Maruhi) OL Ôoku Monogatari shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Let's Go Hot Spring, which focuses more on action than character development, Shinnyû Shain: (Maruhi) OL Ôoku Monogatari subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Akai Tôri-ame and Swedish Porno: The House of Beasts explore similar territory, Shinnyû Shain: (Maruhi) OL Ôoku Monogatari stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 29, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 7m
