Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Moon Yeo-song
Writer
- Heo Jin
Producer
- Kim Hwa-sik
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Farewell Tokyo 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 Moon Yeo-song 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 1985, 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 Farewell Tokyo took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1482 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1985, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Farewell Tokyo shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Babel, which focuses more on action than character development, Farewell Tokyo subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Tokyo MER: Mobile Emergency Room: The Movie and Lost in Translation explore similar territory, Farewell Tokyo 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: September 7, 1985
- Runtime: 1h 35m