Cast
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Kentarō Shimizu
as Shoichi Sakurai
Tetsuo Kurata
as Hiromitsu Nishimura
Kentarou Nakakura
as Matsuoka
Masataka Naruse
as Chairman of Kuronuma Group
Takahashi Kazuoki
as
Ken Musashi
as
Donpei Tsuchihira
as Samejima's subordinate
Kanji Sakai
as
Hideki Yamada
as
Shōichi Sakurai
as Mahjong parlor customer
Takashi Matsuyama
as Narrator
Masato Obara
as Samejima's subordinate
Keita Tatsumi
as Samejima's subordinate
Crew
Director
- Masaru Konuma
Producer
- Takeshi Kato
- Mitsuo Matsukawa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Shin Mahjong Demon 2: Mahjong Lawless Zone 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 Masaru Konuma 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 1999, 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 Shin Mahjong Demon 2: Mahjong Lawless Zone took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1292 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Shin Mahjong Demon 2: Mahjong Lawless Zone shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Spicy Love Soup, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Shin Mahjong Demon 2: Mahjong Lawless Zone subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Cocoon and Lust, Caution explore similar territory, Shin Mahjong Demon 2: Mahjong Lawless Zone 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: August 27, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 35m
