Cast
View AllSosuke Ikematsu
as Isamu Kato (Neet)
Mugi Kadowaki
as Satomi Suzuki (University Student)
Kenichi Takitoh
as Salaried Man
Eriko Nakamura
as Child Care Teacher
Hirofumi Arai
as Freeter
Yoko Mitsuya
as Office Lady
Muck Akazawa
as Regular Costumer
Ryusuke Komakine
as Virgin
Tokio Emoto
as Couple Man
You Nobue
as Couple Woman
Yosuke Kubozuka
as Clerk
Tetsushi Tanaka
as Shop Manager
Crew
Director
- Daisuke Miura
Producer
- Toshiki Kimura
- Makoto Fujimoto
- Makoto Okada
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Love's Whirlpool examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Daisuke Miura 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 2014, 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 Love's Whirlpool took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 179 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1689 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 369 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Love's Whirlpool shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Plukovník Chabert, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Love's Whirlpool subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Seven Cucas and Cruel Intentions explore similar territory, Love's Whirlpool stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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 1, 2014
- Runtime: 2h 3m
Where to Watch

