Cast
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Eri Fukatsu
as Mitsue Fujima 'Hoshi'
Seiyo Uchino
as Noboru Hayami 'Haru'
Naho Toda
as Rose
Kazufumi Miyazawa
as Hiroyuki Yamagami
Kotaro Takeshita
as Shogo Tobe
Masaharu Tsuruku
as Rose's Fiance
Sei Hiraizumi
as Hoshi's Father
Noriko Kojima
as
Aya Mizuno
as
Yuka Motohashi
as
Takayuki Sakai
as
Masaaki Senda
as
Noriko Suzuki
as
Tetsuya Ushio
as Supermarket Manager
Masako Yagi
as Haruma's Mother
Crew
Director
- Yoshimitsu Morita
Writer
- Yoshimitsu Morita
Producer
- Katsuhiko Aoki
- Kazuko Misawa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Haru 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 Yoshimitsu Morita 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 1996, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Haru took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Haru shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Pinwheel Without Wind, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Haru offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Wrong No. 2 and Gone with the Wind explore similar territory, Haru 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: March 9, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 58m
