Cast
View All
Kaori Momoi
as Chikako Koga
Toshiyuki Nagashima
as Yuichi Koga
Mitsuru Hirata
as Kotaro Yamazaki
Kimiko Yo
as Sanae Ebino
Yoshihiro Katō
as Shohei Tsunoda
Toshiyuki Kitami
as Kojima
Saeko Kizuki
as Shizuko Kudo
Asako Kobayashi
as Kozue Tsunoda
Naoto Takenaka
as Uemura
Jun Togawa
as Rie
Yuka Tachihara
as Hiromi Obayashi
Crew
Director
- Tatsumi Kumashiro
Writer
- Haruhiko Arai
Producer
- Kota Yamada
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Love Bites Back 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 Tatsumi Kumashiro 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 1988, 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 Love Bites Back took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: July 1, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 42m