Cast
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Takako Uchida
as Sonoko Inoue / Sonoko's Mother (Twenty Years Earlier)
Kyōko Ōgimachi
as Sachiko Tsuda
Kyōzō Fuyuki
as Kensuke Ishizuka
Akio Shirakawa
as Noboru Ishizuka
Shôjirô Yamaguchi
as Shin'ichi Kikuchi
Momoyo Ôhara
as Sadako
Mari Kojima
as Michiyo Funaki
Kaoru Miya
as Haruko Yamano
Naoya Kamishiro
as Yamazaki
Yoshiko Tsukamoto
as Kumeko Ishizuka
Hiroshi Tsukiji
as Hamamoto
Kazumi Ôsaki
as Tamura
Crew
Director
- Yûzô Fuji
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Kawaii akujo: Konomama koroshite 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 Yûzô Fuji 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 Kawaii akujo: Konomama koroshite took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 71 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 62 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- 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
Details
- Release Date: October 1, 1965
- Runtime: 1h 11m