Cast
View All
Shota Matsuda
as Suzuki
Atsuko Maeda
as Mayuko Naruoka
Fumino Kimura
as Miyako Ishimaru
Kanro Morita
as Suzuki
Takahiro Miura
as Kaido
Tomoya Maeno
as Bon
Noritake Kinashi
as Manager of Shizuoka Branch Office
Satomi Tezuka
as Shiho Ishimaru
Tsurutaro Kataoka
as Teruhiro Ishimaru
Ayako Yoshitani
as Yuko
Miyabi Matsuura
as Natsuko
Kotomi Yaegashi
as Kazumi
Ayaka Onishi
as Junko
Ryo Sato
as Madoka
Atsushi Yamanishi
as Manager Kuwashima
Crew
Director
- Yukihiko Tsutsumi
Producer
- Miho Kobayashi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Initiation Love represents a fascinating example of Mystery/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Yukihiko Tsutsumi 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 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Initiation Love took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 65 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1132 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Initiation Love shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hot Young Bloods, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Initiation Love subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Pinwheel Without Wind and What's Eating Gilbert Grape explore similar territory, Initiation Love 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: May 23, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 50m
