Cast
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Masahiro Motoki
as Kogoro Akechi
Naoto Takenaka
as Edogawa Rampo
Michiko Hada
as Shizuko
Teruyuki Kagawa
as Masashi Yokomizo
Mikijiro Hira
as Marquis Ogawara
Shiro Sano
as Officer
Ittoku Kishibe
as Cafe Owner
Nekohachi Edoya
as Antique Shop Owner
Junichi Takagi
as Fujimori
Kirin Kiki
as House Wife / Head of Maid
Julie Dreyfus
as Mademoiselle
Yoshio Harada
as Big Star
Kinji Fukasaku
as Film Director
Hiroshi Abe
as Singer
Genjiro Arato
as Producer
Crew
Director
- Kazuyoshi Okuyama
Writer
- Kazuyoshi Okuyama
- Yuhei Enoki
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Mystery of Rampo 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 Kazuyoshi Okuyama 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 1995, 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 The Mystery of Rampo took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 344 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Mystery of Rampo 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 Shining, which focuses more on action than character development, The Mystery of Rampo subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Manhattan and Moulin Rouge! explore similar territory, The Mystery of Rampo stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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 27, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 40m
