Cast
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Chang Mei-Yao
as Lin Yu-li
Akira Takarada
as Susumu Utsugi
Tsutomu Yamazaki
as Shiro Matsumoto
Hiroshi Koizumi
as Takeda, Chief of the Narcotics Division/ Drug dealer boss
Yū Fujiki
as Sergeant
Kumi Mizuno
as Yuko Nakao
Kenjirō Ishiyama
as Shozo Tabe
Akihiko Hirata
as Secretary Asano
Shōji Yasui
as Chief/Boss Otomo
Eijirō Yanagi
as Lin Qingming/ Kiyoaki Hayashi
Kazuo Kitamura
as Hiroshi Aoki
Nobuo Nakamura
as Kazumasa Nagahara
Kenji Sahara
as Mitsuru Wakita
Yutaka Sada
as Chief of Oils and Fats Division, Takashima Bussan
Ma Lik
as Tsui
Crew
Director
- Jun Fukuda
Producer
- Masumi Fujimoto
- Yeung Chiu
- Kenichiro Tsunoda
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The White Rose of Hong Kong 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 Jun Fukuda 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 1965, 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 White Rose of Hong Kong took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The White Rose of Hong Kong shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Longshot, which focuses more on action than character development, The White Rose of Hong Kong offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like La Mano and Miss Meadows explore similar territory, The White Rose of Hong Kong 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 25, 1965
- Runtime: 1h 50m
