The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side Poster

The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side 1999

★ 6.02 votes90 min📅 1999-08-07

Dive into the creative process behind Shunji Iwai's iconic TV play *Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?* with this 1999 documentary, *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side*.

Director: Naoto Shiraishi

Cast

Megumi Okina
Megumi Okina
Self
Yuta Yamazaki
Yuta Yamazaki
Self
Kenji Kohashi
Kenji Kohashi
Kuniko Asagi
Kuniko Asagi
Kanako Fukaura
Kanako Fukaura
Jirō Komaki
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side* (1999) about?

This documentary revisits the making of Shunji Iwai's acclaimed TV play, *Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?*, offering insights into its production from the perspectives of the cast and crew. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the film captures the creative energy and challenges of bringing Iwai's vision to life.

Who directed *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side*?

The documentary was directed by Naoto Shiraishi, whose work focuses on capturing the essence of artistic processes and cultural moments in Japanese cinema.

Who stars in *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side*?

The documentary features Megumi Okina, Yuta Yamazaki, Kenji Kohashi, Kuniko Asagi, and Kanako Fukaura, among others, as they reflect on their involvement in Iwai's original production.

Is *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side* (1999) worth watching?

While IMDb does not provide a rating for this documentary, its subject matter—an exploration of a cult classic's creation—makes it a compelling watch for fans of Japanese cinema and documentary filmmaking. The blend of nostalgia, artistic insight, and behind-the-scenes drama offers a rewarding experience for those interested in the craft of filmmaking.

How long is *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side*?

The documentary has a runtime of 90 minutes.

The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side (1999): Documentary on Shunji Iwai's Iconic TV Play

Dive into the creative process behind Shunji Iwai's iconic TV play *Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?* with this 1999 documentary, *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side*. Directed by Naoto Shiraishi, the film offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of Iwai's visually striking and emotionally resonant drama. Through candid interviews and archival footage, Shiraishi captures the atmosphere of late-90s Japanese filmmaking, where artistic ambition and technical challenges intertwine. The documentary explores themes of perspective, memory, and the fleeting nature of youth, all filtered through the lens of Iwai's distinctive storytelling style. With a runtime of 90 minutes, it's a must-watch for fans of Japanese cinema and documentary filmmaking alike.

Starring Megumi Okina, Yuta Yamazaki, and Kenji Kohashi, the film weaves together their personal experiences and reflections on the production, creating a layered narrative that feels both intimate and expansive. Shiraishi's direction balances nostalgia with a sharp, observational eye, making *The Boys Wanted to See Fireworks from the Side* more than just a retrospective—it's a celebration of creative collaboration and the magic of filmmaking.