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Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom

Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom (1990)

Hiroki and Kanata have been together since they were children. One day Hiroki is caught up in an accident while trying to save a little girl. The next thing he knows, he is looking down on his own body. Seperated from his body, Kanata, and everything else, he tries to figure out just what is going on. Why is he outside his body which is living on as if nothing has changed, how can he convince Kanata that he is there, and who is the strange girl, Fhalei, who keeps appearing for him?

Directed by Narumi Kakinouchi

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Narumi Kakinouchi

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom 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 Narumi Kakinouchi 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 1990, 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 Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 40 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 61 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 71 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 1990, when this film was released:
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children, which focuses more on action than character development, Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Tracing the Gray Summer and Pretty Cure Dream Stars! explore similar territory, Ryokunohara Labyrinth - Sparkling Phantom 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: January 1, 1990
  • Runtime: 40m