Cast
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Masahiro Nakai
as Koichi Amikawa
Junnosuke Taguchi
as Shinichi Tsukada
Tsutomu Yamazaki
as Yoshio Arima
Misaki Itō
as Mariko Arima
Kanji Tsuda
as Hiromi Kurihashi
Yuki Saori
as Sumiko Kurihashi
Takashi Fujii
as Kazuaki Takai
Yoko Fujita
as Yumiko Takai
Eiko Koike
as Akemi Kishida
Yasufumi Terawaki
as Shouji Maehata
Yoshino Kimura
as Shigeko Maehata
Shigemitsu Ogi
as Shigeru Furukawa
Kumi Nakamura
as Machiko Furukawa
Yoshida Asahi
as Sakaki
Moro Morooka
as Shinozaki
Crew
Director
- Yoshimitsu Morita
Writer
- Yoshimitsu Morita
Producer
- Hideyuki Honma
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Copycat Killer examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Yoshimitsu Morita 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 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Copycat Killer took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 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.
- The film contains approximately 1387 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Copycat Killer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Promise at Dawn, which focuses more on action than character development, Copycat Killer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Valley of Bones and Grand Canary explore similar territory, Copycat Killer 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: June 8, 2002
- Runtime: 2h 3m
