Cast
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Junichi Okada
as Aoki Sozaemon
Rie Miyazawa
as Osae
Arata Furuta
as Sadashiro
Teruyuki Kagawa
as Hirano Jirozaemon
Tomoko Tabata
as Onobu
Ryûhei Ueshima
as Otokichi
Yuichi Kimura
as Magosaburo
Ryo Kase
as Sodekichi
Seiji Chihara
as Tomekichi
Sei Hiraizumi
as Zenzo
Moeko Ezawa
as Okatsu
Yui Natsukawa
as Oryo
Jun Kunimura
as Isekan
Katsuo Nakamura
as Shigehachi
Renji Ishibashi
as Shozaburo Aoki
Crew
Director
- Hirokazu Kore-eda
Writer
- Hirokazu Kore-eda
Producer
- Nozomu Enoki
- Shiho Sato
- Hijiri Taguchi
- Yasushi Minatoya
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Hana 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 Hirokazu Kore-eda 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 2006, 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 Hana took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 127 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 182 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1804 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hana 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 Black Hooded Man 5, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Hana subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Baian the Assassin and Music Box explore similar territory, Hana 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: June 3, 2006
- Runtime: 2h 7m
