Cast
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Crew
Director
- Shusuke Kaneko
Producer
- Ryôhei Naka
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Jellyfish 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 Shusuke Kaneko 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 2013, 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 Jellyfish took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 61 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2013, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- 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 Jellyfish shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike People in the Summer Night, which focuses more on action than character development, Jellyfish offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Bound and Smilla's Sense of Snow explore similar territory, Jellyfish 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: August 31, 2013
- Runtime: 1h 31m
