Cast
View AllKeiko Matsuzaka
as Yoriko Tsutano
Kimiko Ikegami
as Satoko Tsutano
Machiko Kyō
as Tsune Tsutano
Yuko Kazu
as Makiko Tsutano
Jūzō Itami
as Kumakura
Kiichi Nakai
as Kusaka
Akira Emoto
as Kikuo Tsutano
Muga Takewaki
as Shiina
Junichi Inoue
as Shiro Koizumi (as Junichi Inoue)
Yutaka Hayashi
as Shoji
Takanobu Hozumi
as Ohno
Norihei Miki
as Owner of Kahmila
Yoko Minakaze
as Shiro's mother
Taketoshi Naitō
as Shiro's father
Akira Nakao
as Akiyama
Crew
Director
- Kazuo Ikehiro
Producer
- Kazuo Kosaka
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Make-Up 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 Kazuo Ikehiro 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 1984, 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 Make-Up took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 137 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 193 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1822 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1984, 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 Make-Up shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Om Shanti Om, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Make-Up offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Dinner Date and Running Out of Time explore similar territory, Make-Up 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: May 2, 1984
- Runtime: 2h 17m