Cast
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Ken Takakura
as Ushioda
Eiji Okada
as Ozawa Taicho
Masako Natsume
as Ozawa Keiko
Keiko Oginome
as Shimura Asako
Takeshi Kusaka
as Morishima Kyoju
Shigeru Kōyama
as Horigome Taicho
Sō Yamamura
as Iwakiri Sencho
Jun Etoh
as Tokumitsu Taiin
Koichi Sato
as Toda Taicho
Shin Kishida
as Kissaten Master
Takeshi Ōbayashi
as Nonomiya Taicho
Shinji Kanai
as Ozaki Taicho
Tatsuo Terashima
as
Tsunehiko Watase
as Ochi
Shinsho Nakamaru
as
Crew
Director
- Koreyoshi Kurahara
Writer
- Susumu Saji
- Toshirō Ishidō
- Koreyoshi Kurahara
- Tatsuo Nogami
Producer
- Masaru Kakutani
- Koretsugu Kurahara
- Tomohiro Kaiyama
- Juichi Tanaka
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Antarctica 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 Koreyoshi Kurahara 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 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Antarctica took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 143 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 183 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1531 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Antarctica 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 English Patient, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Antarctica offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Pianist and Schindler's List explore similar territory, Antarctica 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: July 23, 1983
- Runtime: 2h 23m
