Cast
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Director
- Minoru Matsushima
- Akinori Matsuo
- Hitoshi Ōzu
Writer
- Takeo Kunihiro
- Kazuo Koike
Producer
- Shigeru Umetani
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Fugitive Samurai distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Minoru Matsushima 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 1984, 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 The Fugitive Samurai took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1365 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Fugitive Samurai shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Second Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Fugitive Samurai subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Wrong Turn at Tahoe and Walking Tall explore similar territory, The Fugitive Samurai 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 3, 1984
- Runtime: 1h 32m