Cast
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Hideo Murota
as Taizo Eguchi
Noriko Kurosawa
as Emiko Eguchi - Taizo's wife
Akiko Shikata
as Yaeko Ozaki
Masato Furuoya
as Shozo Utagawa
Hiroshi Fukami
as Reiji Ikemoto
Akira Sakai
as Zensaku Arita
Moeko Ezawa
as
Hōsei Komatsu
as Kurazo Utagawa
Haruko Toda
as
Seiji Endō
as
Takashi Sue
as
Rei Okamoto
as Sadako Arita
Imari Tsuji
as Kayo Utagawa
Iwao Dan
as
Asami Oka
as
Crew
Director
- Noboru Tanaka
Writer
- Susumu Saji
Producer
- Akira Miura
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Rape and Death of a Housewife 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 Noboru Tanaka 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 1978, 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 Rape and Death of a Housewife took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1659 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rape and Death of a Housewife shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mifune, which focuses more on action than character development, Rape and Death of a Housewife offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kaagaz and Luzzu explore similar territory, Rape and Death of a Housewife 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 8, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 36m
