Cast
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Koichi Sato
as Mikihiko Bandai
Masahiro Motoki
as Junichi Mitsuya
Takeshi Kitano
as Ichiro Kyoya
Jinpachi Nezu
as Kaname Hizu
Kippei Shiina
as Jimmy
Naoto Takenaka
as Shohei Ogiwara
Kazuya Kimura
as Kazuma Shibata
Chiaki Kuriyama
as Ogiwara's Daughter
Daisuke Iijima
as Okoshi Member
Ryo Iwamatsu
as Man at the Toilet
Maiko Kawakami
as Hostess at Pinky
Hideo Murota
as Shikine
Eiko Nagashima
as Saki
Toshiyuki Nagashima
as Yasumasa Ogoshi
Kanji Tsuda
as Fukatsu
Crew
Director
- Takashi Ishii
Writer
- Takashi Ishii
Producer
- Takuto Niizu
- Katsuhide Motoki
- Taketo Niitsu
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Gonin 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 Takashi Ishii 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 1995, 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 Gonin took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Gonin 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 Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Gonin offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Sonatine and Knockaround Guys explore similar territory, Gonin stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: September 23, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 49m
