Cast
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Koji Tsuruta
as Dr. Soda
Yoshiko Sakuma
as
Naoko Kubo
as
Sō Yamamura
as Ishigami
Yūnosuke Itō
as Huang
Ken Takakura
as Hari
Isao Yamagata
as Motoi
Fumitake Ōmura
as Ashikawa
Harumi Sone
as Wu
Masumi Okada
as Rosuki
Shoji Nakayama
as Hitomi
Nakajirō Tomita
as Lee
Yoshi Katō
as
Takashi Kanda
as Mayor
Tokue Hanazawa
as Choi
Crew
Director
- Kiyoshi Saeki
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Sand City in Manchuria 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 Kiyoshi Saeki 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 1960, 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 The Sand City in Manchuria took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1960, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: August 24, 1960
- Runtime: 1h 36m