Cast
View All
Takaaki Enoki
as Mitsuhiko Asami
Takeshi Kusaka
as Kazunori Mizukami
Naomi Zaizen
as Hidemi Mizukami
Ittoku Kishibe
as
Shigeru Kōyama
as Yoshinori Takasaki
Rei Okamoto
as
Shota Yamaguchi
as Kazutaka Mizukami
Yousuke Saito
as Detective Kurata
Akiji Kobayashi
as
Fujio Tokita
as Patrolman Nakamura
Michino Yokoyama
as Kume Fukumoto
Miki Kihara
as Chiyoe Fukumoto
Mai Tachihara
as Taeko Kawashima
Gen Idemitsu
as
Hideji Ōtaki
as Priest Nire
Crew
Director
- Kon Ichikawa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Noh Mask Murders 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 Kon Ichikawa 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 1991, 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 Noh Mask Murders took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 126 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- 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 Noh Mask Murders shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lolita, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Noh Mask Murders offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rosemary's Baby and The Omen explore similar territory, Noh Mask Murders 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: March 15, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 49m
