Cast
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Crew
Director
- Hideo Jojo
Producer
- Kazumi Fukase
- Tomonori Akiyama
- Sara Kondo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Bad Summer 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 Hideo Jojo 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 2025, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of A Bad Summer took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2025, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Bad Summer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lost in Translation, which focuses more on action than character development, A Bad Summer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Jackie Brown and A Clockwork Orange explore similar territory, A Bad Summer 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 20, 2025
- Runtime: 1h 54m
