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Breakthrough for Change

Breakthrough for Change (2015)

Feb 07, 2015 1h 52m Drama Comedy

Akira, Takeshi, Yasu, and Shun are a gang of four close friends, all of whom were core members of their high-school ekiden team. Although they were stars back in those days, having slacked up their efforts subsequently, their daily life is lackluster now that the age of forty is just around the corner. They talk at a favorite local tavern just like they used to after Akira comes home giving up his dream to become an actor. Thinking back, they have never accomplished anything but ekiden, and they have unknowingly acquired a tendency to run away from problems in life in general. The phrase they cannot help muttering to themselves is how brilliant they were in those days… Feeling dispirited, they think of participating in the Shimanto Dragon Ride. A challenge for the four men in their late thirties begins…

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Directed by Daisuke Matsuda

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Daisuke Matsuda
Writer
  • Daisuke Matsuda
Producer
  • Futoshi Yonezu

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Breakthrough for Change 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 Daisuke Matsuda 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 2015, 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 Breakthrough for Change took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Breakthrough for Change shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Sweet Rain: Accuracy of Death, which focuses more on action than character development, Breakthrough for Change offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Cruel Bondage Picture Legend and Kids Return: The Reunion explore similar territory, Breakthrough for Change stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 7, 2015
  • Runtime: 1h 52m