Cast
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Masahiro Motoki
as Shuhei Yamamoto
Misa Shimizu
as Natsuko Kawashima
Naoto Takenaka
as Aoki Tomio
Akira Emoto
as Professor Tokichi Anayama
Kaori Mizushima
as Chie Asai
Hiromasa Taguchi
as Hosaku Tanaka
Kentarô Sakai
as
Masaaki Takarai
as Haruo Yamamoto
Masaru Matsuda
as Tatsuo Horino
Hiroshi Miyasaka
as Hokudo no Ken
Goro Kataoka
as Hayashi
Naomasa Musaka
as Sumo OB
Fuyuki Murakami
as Yasujiro Mine
Mutsuko Sakura
as Yuki Anayama
Robert Hoffman
as George Smiley
Crew
Director
- Masayuki Suō
Writer
- Masayuki Suō
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Sumo Do, Sumo Don't represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Suō 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 1992, 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 Sumo Do, Sumo Don't took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1992, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: January 15, 1992
- Runtime: 1h 45m