Cast
View AllKie Kitano
as Akira Mochizuki
Masanobu Takashima
as Kengo Kazami
Yusuke Yamamoto
as Manabu Ozone
Yuma Ishigaki
as Ryota Iwasaki
Go Ayano
as Wataru Machida
Rio Yamashita
as Kumi Kisaragi
Jun Hashimoto
as Kohei Tomiichi
Masaya Katō
as Kaoru Mikami
Sadawo Abe
as Yuji Kokubo
Susumu Terajima
as Tetsuo Yamaji
Kazuyuki Asano
as Shinichi Izumi
Seiji Fukushi
as Osamu Takuma
Shugo Oshinari
as Otaku guy
Taro Suruga
as Producer
Crew
Director
- Kazumasa Nemoto
Writer
- Tomomi Ookubo
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Thriller/Mystery/TV Movie film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Double Meaning: Yes or No? distinguishes itself through its exceptional pacing and meaningful stakes for its protagonists.
Director Kazumasa Nemoto 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 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Double Meaning: Yes or No? took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1171 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 457 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2013, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Double Meaning: Yes or No? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Saw IV, which focuses more on action than character development, Double Meaning: Yes or No? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Saw and Jackie Brown explore similar territory, Double Meaning: Yes or No? stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 1, 2013
- Runtime: 1h 34m