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Who Were We?

Who Were We? (2024)

May 31, 2024 1h 41m Drama Romance

On Sado Island, Kii works as a cleaner at a gold mine. One day, she finds a collapsed woman in the facility and takes the woman to her home. The woman doesn't remember her past or even her name. The woman is named Midori by the two other girls living with Kii. Kii gets permission from the director for Midori to work as a cleaner at the mine. One day, Midori is attracted by the presence of cats and this leads her to meet Ao, who works as a night guard at the gold mine. Ao tells her that he also doesn't remember his past. Midori and Ao get attracted to each other and spend time together. One day, Midori meets Murasaki who seems to have a close relationship with Ao. This disturbs Midori.

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Directed by Tetsuya Tomina

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Tetsuya Tomina
Writer
  • Tetsuya Tomina

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Who Were We? examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Tetsuya Tomina 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 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Who Were We? took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 461 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2024, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Who Were We? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Bourne Identity, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Who Were We? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Bourne Supremacy and A Very Long Engagement explore similar territory, Who Were We? 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: May 31, 2024
  • Runtime: 1h 41m