Cast
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Crew
Director
- Toshio Masuda
Producer
- Yūjirō Ishihara
- Masahiko Kobayashi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Shadow Hunters distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Toshio Masuda 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 1972, 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 Shadow Hunters took approximately 33 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 146 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1457 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: June 10, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 30m