Cast
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Toshiaki Karasawa
as Kenji Endo
Etsushi Toyokawa
as Otcho
Takako Tokiwa
as Yukiji
Airi Taira
as Kanna Endo
Nana Katase
as Miki Shikishima
Hitomi Kuroki
as Kiriko Endo
Eiko Koike
as Takasu
Haruka Kinami
as Kyoko
Yoji Tanaka
as Detective Higashino
Andrew Koji
as Thai Gangster
Arata Iura
as
Teruyuki Kagawa
as
Fumiyo Kohinata
as
Crew
Director
- Yukihiko Tsutsumi
Writer
- Yashushi Fukuda
Producer
- Nobuyuki Iinuma
- Ryûji Ichiyama
- Morio Amagi
- Futoshi Ohira
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Yukihiko Tsutsumi 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 2009, 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 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 140 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 190 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ghost in the Shell, which focuses more on action than character development, 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Case Closed: The Crimson Love Letter and Tenchi Muyou! The Night Before the Carnival explore similar territory, 20th Century Boys 2: The Last Hope stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 30, 2009
- Runtime: 2h 20m
