Backdrop preview Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade backdrop
Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade (1999)

A member of an elite paramilitary counter-terrorism unit becomes traumatized after witnessing the suicide bombing of a young girl and is forced to undergo retraining. However, unbeknownst to him, he becomes a key player in a dispute between rival police divisions, as he finds himself increasingly involved with the sister of the girl he saw die.

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Directed by Hiroyuki Okiura

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Hiroyuki Okiura
Producer
  • Hidekazu Terakawa
  • Atsushi Sugita

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade 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 Hiroyuki Okiura 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 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1364 individual shots.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1999, when this film was released:
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Belle, which focuses more on action than character development, Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like DAN DA DAN: First Encounter and Perfect Victory Daiteioh explore similar territory, Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade 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: November 17, 1999
  • Runtime: 1h 42m
  • Revenue: $94,072

Where to Watch

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