Cast
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Tetsurō Sagawa
as Golgo 13
Kiyoshi Kobayashi
as Gen. T. Jefferson
Kei Tomiyama
as Robert Dawson
Kumiko Takizawa
as Rita / Emily Dawson
Reiko Mutoh
as Laura Dawson
Toshiko Fujita
as Cindy / Doctor Zed
Ichirô Murakoshi
as E. Young
Kazue Komiya
as Rita
Kazuo Hayashi
as Computer 1 Operator
Koichi Chiba
as The Watchmaker
Koichi Kitamura
as Albert
Kosei Tomita
as Bob Bragan
Rokuro Naya
as Bishop Moretti
Shingo Kanemoto
as F. Garbin
Shunsuke Shima
as Pago
Crew
Director
- Osamu Dezaki
Producer
- Yutaka Fujioka
- Mataichirô Yamamoto
- Nobuo Inada
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Crime/Animation/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Golgo 13: The Professional distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Osamu Dezaki 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 1983, 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 Golgo 13: The Professional took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 323 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 5 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.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Golgo 13: The Professional shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Everly, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Golgo 13: The Professional offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Naked Weapon and The Rock explore similar territory, Golgo 13: The Professional 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: May 28, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 31m
