Cast
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Keiichirō Akagi
as Katsumi Nakada
Reiko Sasamori
as Kikuyo Ishioka
Mari Shiraki
as Chikako Makino - Wan-chang Chen's lover
Kazuko Yoshiyuki
as Mitsu Nagayama
Goro Tarumi
as
Arihiro Fujimura
as
Kōjirō Kusanagi
as
Shōki Fukae
as
Keisuke Noro
as
Kiyoshi Kamoda
as
Hiroshi Chō
as
Yoshihiro Nakadai
as
Jun Hamamura
as
Shoichi Ozawa
as
Shinsuke Ashida
as
Crew
Director
- Yōichi Ushihara
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, A Killer Without a Grave distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Yōichi Ushihara 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 1961, 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 A Killer Without a Grave took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1961, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: February 11, 1961
- Runtime: 1h 27m