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- Pulse (Kairo) Plot and Cast
- The Loneliness of Pulse
- Why You Should Watch Pulse
As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours poring over the silver screen, I must say that Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s masterpiece, Pulse (Kairo), stands out as one of the most profound and haunting experiences I’ve ever had while watching a movie.
As a devoted streaming enthusiast, I can’t help but associate the peak of quality programming with the giant in the industry known as Max. With its catalog boasting a rich history that mirrors HBO’s, it’s no surprise that their offerings have set new standards for revolutionary television. This reputation extends to their movie selection as well. So, when I discovered the recent inclusion of “Pulse (Kairo)” in their library, it was a delightful addition that I had anticipated. This Japanese horror masterpiece is truly emblematic of the country’s finest filmmaking, delving into themes of loneliness and isolation to create terror that feels unsettlingly familiar yet alien.
Let’s explore the iconic Japanese horror film, delve into its creator, and understand how it masterfully tackles distressing topics like suicide and depression to leave a lasting impression. For readers sensitive to discussions about suicide and depression, please approach with caution or consider reading another article instead.
Pulse (Kairo) Plot and Cast
In essence, the film “Pulse” revolves around two interwoven narratives involving college-aged individuals. One group is probing the enigma behind their colleague’s inexplicable disappearance. Meanwhile, another student, less proficient with technology, becomes alarmed when his computer starts displaying unsettling visuals of others. As the story unfolds, characters encounter a sinister presence that torments them and eventually drives some to take their own lives.
In a different wording, “Ghosts don’t aim to kill individuals… as such an action would only generate more ghosts. Isn’t that correct? Instead, they’ll strive to make people eternal by subtly confining them within their own solitude.” – Harue Karasawa in Pulse (Kairo)
The principal Japanese actors include Haruhiko Katô, Kumiko Asô, Koyuki, Kurume Arisaka, Masatoshi Matsuo, and Shinji Takeda. These individuals have built modest careers in the Japanese film industry, but their work in Pulse remains their most recognized performances, particularly to Western viewers; some may also recall Koyuki from her roles in The Last Samurai and Netflix’s Sanctuary.
Since the 1970s, Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa has been creating films, beginning with a collection of short movies. His movie “Pulse” served as his significant introduction to Western audiences, and it is still his most recognized work. However, he has also received praise for other projects in both horror and drama genres, such as “Seance,” “Doppleganger,” “Cure,” “Tokyo Sonata,” “Creepy” and “Journey to the Shore.
The Loneliness of Pulse
Expressing the feeling of solitude that underpins the terror of Pulse is crucial to its impact, and this is achieved through various means. One of the most apparent methods is by having a significant portion of the horror unfold within narrower settings, such as users’ apartments, with their dim screens serving as gateways into another realm. This striking visual motif is strikingly portrayed in the narrative of student Ryosuke, who, from his cramped bedroom, is forced to witness the bleak lives of many across Japan living in isolation and despair. The visuals of this world are drab, with the vibrant cityscape of Japan seldom appearing on screen. Instead, we are presented with a series of smaller rooms, classrooms overflowing with computers, and largely empty social spaces; the setting for the film itself appears lonely due to its lack of vitality.
The images of suicide (such as hanging or jumping from high places) are just as startling, if not more so, as encountering ghostly spirits.
It seems that the realm where consciousness or souls reside has a limited capacity. Regardless if it can hold billions or trillions, at some point, it will reach its maximum. When it becomes full to the brim, it must spill over somewhere. But, we don’t know yet where this overflow might occur. (Yoshizaki in Pulse (Kairo))
Additionally, subtler aspects echo a sense of solitude, making Pulse reminiscent of the “hikikomori” phenomenon, a cultural issue that gained significance in the ’90s and was acknowledged by the government in the 2000s. In essence, hikikomori refers to individuals isolating themselves from society. The film appears to be inspired by young people who suffer from this syndrome and find solace in their computers as their primary connection to the world, leading to a life of isolation and loneliness. (You can learn more about it on It’s Your Japan)
In many instances, Takefumi Haketa’s score subtly contributes to creating the chilling, desolate ambiance. At times, it is barely perceptible, almost like a faint hum reminiscent of a computer’s drone. However, at other moments, it speaks volumes, evoking a mournful wail that seems to echo from the shadows, resonating with the feelings of despair and fear felt by the characters in Pulse. This score is exceptionally expressive, tugging at the same emotions of helplessness and dread.
Why You Should Watch Pulse
The film, Pulse, has garnered widespread acclaim (boasting a 76% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 55 reviews), making it one of the top J-horror movies in existence. However, unlike traditional long-haired ghost stories such as Ring or Ju-on, it offers a unique twist (although it does retain some elements from these classics). Those who appreciate jump scares might find themselves underwhelmed by this movie. Instead, the film’s atmosphere and the profound themes it explores are what create its chilling effect, which may not appeal to everyone.
Still, Pulse is considered a classic for a good reason, and those willing to open themselves up to soak up the doom and gloom that Kiyoshi Kurosawa throws down will find the film utterly terrifying. The movie was certainly popular enough for a remake in 2006, and while it boasts the talented Kristen Bell in the lead, it is best to completely ignore it and stick to the original. The addition of Pulse to Max is certainly welcome, giving its subscribers a chance to experience this seminal horror movie. Those who don’t have Max can stream Pulse on Plex or Hoopla.
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2024-09-15 02:01