Cast
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Jay Chou
as Takumi Fujiwara
Anne Suzuki
as Natsuki Mogi
Jordan Chan Siu-Chun
as Kyouichi Sudou
Shawn Yue Man-Lok
as Takeshi Nakazato
Anthony Wong Chau-Sang
as Bunta Fujiwara
Kenny Bee
as Yuuichi Tachibana
Chapman To Man-Chat
as Itsuki Tachibana
Edison Chen
as Ryousuke Takahashi
Tsuyoshi Abe
as Kenji
Liu Geng-Hong
as Seiji Iwaki
Kazuo Yashiro
as SpeedStars Member
Kiyohiko Ueki
as Iketani
Chie Tanaka
as Miya
Mika Kuroiwa
as Natsuki Mogi's Classmate
Megumi Seitone
as Natsuki Mogi's Classmate
Crew
Director
- Andrew Lau Wai-Keung
- Alan Mak Siu-Fai
Writer
- Shuichi Shigeno
Producer
- Andrew Lau Wai-Keung
- Ronald Wong
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Initial D 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 Andrew Lau Wai-Keung 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 2005, 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 Initial D took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 419 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1112 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Initial D shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Oldboy, which focuses more on action than character development, Initial D subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Black Butler: Book of the Atlantic and Silhouette of Your Voice explore similar territory, Initial D stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: May 12, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $1,549,000
- Revenue: $7,096,000
Where to Watch
