Cast
View AllTomohisa Yamashita
as Ken Iwase
Masami Nagasawa
as Rei Yoshida
Nana Eikura
as Eri Oku
Gaku Hamada
as Hisashi Tsurumi
Yuta Hiraoka
as Mikio Enokido
Naohito Fujiki
as Tetsuya Tada
Hiroshi Mikami
as Yosei/Fairy
Yutaka Matsushige
as Matsunori Ito
Gota Watabe
as Socrates
Leo Morimoto
as Takanori Yoshida
Yoshiko Miyazaki
as Reina Yoshida
Crew
Director
- Gaku Narita
Writer
- Shigeki Kaneko
Producer
- Reiko Misao
- Madoka Takiyama
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Operation Love Special represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance/TV Movie 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 Gaku Narita 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 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Operation Love Special took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 163 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 2428 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Operation Love Special shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hers, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Operation Love Special subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mobsters and Mormons and One Step Closer Away From You explore similar territory, Operation Love Special 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 25, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 54m