Cast
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Mariko Okada
as Miyako Mizuki
Shigeru Tsuyuguchi
as Ginpei Momoi
Tamotsu Hayakawa
as Kitano
Keiko Natsu
as Machie
Hiroko Masuda
as
Aiko Masuda
as Harumi's mother
Sakae Umezu
as
Yukio Tada
as
Natsu Setoguchi
as
Shin'ichi Matsushima
as
Mitsuhiko Shibata
as
Hisanobu Ichikawa
as
Kazumi Higuchi
as
Shinsuke Ashida
as Yuzo
Crew
Director
- Yoshishige Yoshida
Writer
- Toshirō Ishidō
- Yasuko Ōno
- Yoshishige Yoshida
Producer
- Keinosuke Kubo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Woman of the Lake examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Yoshishige Yoshida 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1966, 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 Woman of the Lake took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2128 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Woman of the Lake shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Scrooge, which focuses more on action than character development, Woman of the Lake offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Christmas Carol and To All the Boys: Always and Forever explore similar territory, Woman of the Lake stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 27, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 42m
