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Uzumasa Limelight 2014

In Japan's Kyoto film hub, Uzumasa, a secret brotherhood thrives behind the scenes. Meet the "kirareyaku" – talented actors who sacrifice their own spotlight for the lead star's triumph. This poignant drama celebrates the unsung heroes of classic jidaigeki films, where artistry and dedication reign supreme, even as the industry's golden age fades away.

In Japan's Kyoto film hub, Uzumasa, a secret brotherhood thrives behind the scenes. Meet the "kirareyaku" – talented actors who sacrifice their own spotlight for the lead star's triumph. This poignant drama celebrates the unsung heroes of classic jidaigeki films, where artistry and dedication reign supreme, even as the industry's golden age fades away.

Does Uzumasa Limelight have end credit scenes?

No!

Uzumasa Limelight does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Uzumasa Limelight

Explore the complete cast of Uzumasa Limelight, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


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Ratings and Reviews for Uzumasa Limelight

See how Uzumasa Limelight is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Uzumasa Limelight stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Rotten Tomatoes
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TOMATOMETER

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User Score

IMDb

6.9 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

69

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User Score

Take the Ultimate Uzumasa Limelight Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of Uzumasa Limelight with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


Uzumasa Limelight Quiz: Test your knowledge on the poignant story of a veteran actor's journey in Uzumasa Limelight.

What is Kamiyama Seiichi's role in samurai films?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for Uzumasa Limelight

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Read the complete plot summary of Uzumasa Limelight, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


Kamiyama Seiichi, portrayed by Fukumoto Seizo, has dedicated his life to the art of acting as a “kirare-yaku” or “drop-dead” actor, serving as a swordsman extra in historical samurai films. For an impressive 40 years, he has appeared in a long-running TV samurai drama alongside the esteemed kabuki actor Onoe Seijuro, and previously, his legendary father, Kobayashi Nenji. However, the stability of his role is shattered when the show’s cancellation is announced, paving the way for a new period drama that features younger talent, CGI effects, and inauthentic costumes.

In the wake of this change, Kamiyama and his dedicated team of veteran drop-dead actors struggle to secure new roles, often finding themselves disregarded by the younger crew members. Rather than being cast in substantial parts, they end up performing in sword demonstrations for eager tourists at the Uzumasa studio in Kyoto. Despite these challenges, Kamiyama remains committed to his craft, practicing his swordplay every night on the now-deserted film sets.

His dedication catches the attention of a young extra, Iga Satsuki, played by Yamamoto Chihiro, who, with considerable effort, persuades him to take her on as a sword fighting student. Unexpectedly, Satsuki’s talent shines through, propelling her to stardom as a skilled swordswoman, while Kamiyama grapples with the reality of aging and faces pressure to retire.

Eventually, it is decided that Satsuki will co-star with Onoe in a theatrical film inspired by their long-running show. To everyone’s surprise, she adamantly insists that Kamiyama be given a prominent drop-dead role. However, going against his better judgment, he hesitates and feels reluctant to take the opportunity. To the studio’s delight, Kamiyama returns, but during his highly anticipated fight scene, he unexpectedly fumbles his sword—a moment that leaves everyone on edge.

The seasoned director, Nakajima Sadao, who plays himself, contemplates cutting Kamiyama from the scene, but the determined young producer insists on giving him another chance. In a breathtaking finale, Kamiyama executes his swan-song with extraordinary elegance, falling amidst a delicate cascade of cherry blossoms, proving that his legacy as a “kirare-yaku” is far from over.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Uzumasa Limelight

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Uzumasa Limelight. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


"Uzumasa Limelight" trailer (English subtitles) JAPAN CUTS 2014

Uzumasa Limelight - U.S trailer

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