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Red Fang: Blue Sonnet

Red Fang: Blue Sonnet (1989)

Sonnet is a cyborg/esper from a harsh background and now trained to be the ultimate warrior and most powerful weapon in the world. She is sent to Japan to watch Komatsuzaki Lan, who is thought to be controlled by the rage of the esper Akai Kiba (Crimson Fang). Lan is a quiet girl who knows she's different from everybody else and starts to show signs of Crimson Fang after coming into contact with Sonnet. In the course of fighting with Lan, Sonnet starts to rediscover her humanity. At the same time Lan has to fight to retain her humanity and control the Crimson Fang.

Directed by Takeyuki Kanda

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Takeyuki Kanda

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Red Fang: Blue Sonnet 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 Takeyuki Kanda 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 1989, 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 Red Fang: Blue Sonnet took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 145 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 201 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1989, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Red Fang: Blue Sonnet shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The House in Karp Lane, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Red Fang: Blue Sonnet subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Der Untergang der Pamir and Neger, Neger, Schornsteinfeger explore similar territory, Red Fang: Blue Sonnet stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: July 16, 1989
  • Runtime: 2h 25m