Cast
View AllTomoko Kawakami
as Misuzu Kamio (voice)
Aya Hisakawa
as Haruko Kamio (voice)
Hikaru Midorikawa
as Yukito Kunisaki (voice)
Chinami Nishimura
as Kanna (voice)
Kikuko Inoue
as Uraha (voice)
Nobutoshi Canna
as Ryuuya (voice)
Shin-ichiro Miki
as Keisuke Tachibana (voice)
Yumi Touma
as Hijiri Kirishima (voice)
Hiromi Konno
as Potato (voice)
Yuko Nagashima
as Yukito's mother (voice)
Keiko Han
as Yao Bikuni (voice)
Michio Nakao
as School teacher (voice)
Aki Sasaki
as Misuzu's classmate (voice)
Kanako Tateno
as Misuzu's classmate (voice)
Sayaka Maeda
as Misuzu's classmate (voice)
Crew
Director
- Osamu Dezaki
Producer
- Iriya Azuma
- Mamoru Yokota
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Air: The Motion Picture represents a fascinating example of Animation/Romance/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Osamu Dezaki 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2005, 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 Air: The Motion Picture took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 197 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Air: The Motion Picture shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Air: The Motion Picture subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers and The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King explore similar territory, Air: The Motion Picture 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, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 31m