Cast
View All
Yōko Minamida
as Asako Kotani
Hideaki Nitani
as
Nobuo Kaneko
as Kawai
Toshio Takahara
as Shigeo Kotani
Shinsuke Ashida
as Muraoka
Jō Shishido
as Hamazaki
Kenjiro Uemura
as
Kan Yanagiya
as Suzumoto
Kotoe Hatsui
as Yasu Suzumoto
Taketoshi Naitō
as
Yōko Kozono
as Mayumi
Hiroshi Kondō
as Kobayashi
Hiroshi Chō
as Hatanaka
Keisuke Noro
as Akira
Kaku Takashina
as
Crew
Director
- Seijun Suzuki
Writer
- Ryuta Akimoto
- Susumu Saji
Producer
- Kaneo Iwai
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Voice Without a Shadow 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 Seijun Suzuki 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 1958, 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 Voice Without a Shadow took approximately 12 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 132 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1958, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 1958
- Runtime: 1h 32m