Cast
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Kazuki Yao
as Judau Ashta / ZZ Gundam
Nobuo Tobita
as Kamille Bidan / Zeta Gundam
Shuichi Ikeda
as Char Aznable / Char's Zaku / Gelgoog / Zeong / Hyaku-Shiki
Toru Furuya
as Amuro Ray / Gundam
Bin Shimada
as Paptimus Scirocco
Fuyumi Shiraishi
as Mirai Yashima
Hirotaka Suzuoki
as Bright Noa
Keiko Han
as Lalah Sune
Maya Okamoto
as Emma Sheen
Miki Ito
as Mineva Zabi
Rumiko Ukai
as Frau Bow
Saeko Shimazu
as Four Murasame
Toshio Furukawa
as Kai Shiden
Yoshiko Sakakibara
as Haman Khan
Yō Inoue
as Sayla Mass
Crew
Director
- Osamu Sekita
Producer
- Hironori Nakagawa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Mobile Suit SD Gundam represents a fascinating example of Animation/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Osamu Sekita 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, 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 Mobile Suit SD Gundam took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 27 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 51 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- 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 Mobile Suit SD Gundam shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike They Call Me Trinity, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Mobile Suit SD Gundam subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like This Is Spinal Tap and Blazing Saddles explore similar territory, Mobile Suit SD Gundam 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: March 12, 1988
- Runtime: 27m
