Cast
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Sayuri Yoshinaga
as Keiko Enami
Yūjirō Ishihara
as Shintaro Masaki
Ruriko Asaoka
as Sumiko Hashimoto
Shirō Ōsaka
as Dr. Yamaka
Mitsuko Miura
as Hatsu Enami
Sachiko Murase
as Atsuko Yamagata
Taiji Tonoyama
as Zenkichi Segawa
Kazuo Kitamura
as
Shoichi Ozawa
as
Shōbun Inoue
as
Kyoko Hori
as
Seijiro Takano
as
Yoshihiro Yamaguchi
as
Eiko Takada
as
Toyoko Takechi
as
Crew
Director
- Katsumi Nishikawa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Fresh Leaves 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 Katsumi Nishikawa 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 1962, 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 Fresh Leaves took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1507 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1962, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fresh Leaves shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Pinwheel Without Wind, which focuses more on action than character development, Fresh Leaves offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Maestro and Uloupené dětství explore similar territory, Fresh Leaves stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 6, 1962
- Runtime: 1h 30m
