Cast
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Takuya Kimura
as Kohei Kuryu
Takako Matsu
as Maiko Amamiya
Nene Otsuka
as Misuzu Nakamura
Hiroshi Abe
as Mitsugu Shibayama
Masanobu Katsumura
as Tatsuo Egami
Fumiyo Kohinata
as Takayuki Suitsugu
Norito Yashima
as Kenji Endo
Takuzô Kadono
as Yutaka Ushimaru
Kiichi Nakai
as Akihiko Takida
Lee Byung-hun
as Kang
Matsumoto Hakuō II
as Issei Gamo
Teruyuki Kagawa
as Yusaku Mayuzumi
Haruka Ayase
as Ririko Izumiya
Arata Furuta
as Shuji Gouda
Renji Ishibashi
as Masahiro Oyabu
Crew
Director
- Masayuki Suzuki
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Hero represents a fascinating example of Mystery cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Masayuki Suzuki 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 2007, 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 Hero took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 130 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2171 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 388 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 68 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hero shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ordinary Person, which focuses more on action than character development, Hero offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like One Missed Call 3: Final and RV: Resurrected Victims explore similar territory, Hero 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: September 8, 2007
- Runtime: 2h 10m
