Cast
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Akiko Hyûga
as Yumi
Nami Misaki
as Somegiku
Asami Ogawa
as Chikako
Junko Mabuki
as Haruko
Yûko Akane
as Yayoi
Koshiro Asami
as Ken'ichi
Yutaka Hayashi
as Hachirô
Bafû Reireisha
as Bunta
Kenji Shimamura
as Heikichi
Akira Takahashi
as Shôzô
Danjuro Tatekawa
as Secretary for Minister
Danshi Tatekawa
as Minister
Kōji Yashiro
as Gôzô
Yudo Yoshikawa
as Tomiko
Crew
Director
- Atsushi Fujiura
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Kairaku Shôten-buro 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 Atsushi Fujiura 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 1979, 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 Kairaku Shôten-buro took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 65 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 85 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kairaku Shôten-buro shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Zoom Up: Seiko's Thigh, which focuses more on action than character development, Kairaku Shôten-buro offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rape Zombie: Lust of the Dead 2 and Dolla Morte explore similar territory, Kairaku Shôten-buro 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: December 8, 1979
- Runtime: 1h 5m
