Cast
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Miho Kanno
as Rie Sonezaki
Seiichi Tanabe
as Goro Kiyokawa
Nao Ômori
as Hisahiro Saegusa
Miho Shiraishi
as Mineko Amari
Takuma Otoo
as Kenji Amari
Nana Katase
as Miki Tanaka
Mirei Kiritani
as Yumi Aoi
Mari Hamada
as Misuzu Myoko
Masahiko Nishimura
as Professor Yashikiki
Ren Osugi
as Takashi Araki
Jun Fubuki
as Midori Yamasaki
Ruriko Asaoka
as Maria Saegusa
Takamasa Suga
as
Kaho Minami
as Hiroko Araki
Crew
Director
- Kentaro Otani
Writer
- Takeru Kaidô
- Tamio Hayashi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Gene Waltz 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 Kentaro Otani 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 2011, 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 Gene Waltz took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- 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 Gene Waltz shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tokyo MER: Mobile Emergency Room: The Movie, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Gene Waltz offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Patch Adams and Extreme Measures explore similar territory, Gene Waltz 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: February 5, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 51m
