In 1993, the neo-noir thriller Rising Sun brought together Sean Connery and Wesley Snipes to explore a complex murder mystery set against a backdrop of cultural tension in Los Angeles. Adapted from Michael Crichton’s 1992 novel, the film highlights the dynamic between Snipes and Connery while delving into issues surrounding Japanese-American relations, making it a notable entry in both actors’ careers and thematic 90s cinema.
Plot Overview: A Murder Investigation Amid Cultural Clashes
Rising Sun begins with the discovery of a strangled American sex worker in the Los Angeles headquarters of Nakamoto, a Japanese corporation. LAPD detective Web Smith, portrayed by Wesley Snipes, is assigned to the case but finds himself out of depth when it comes to Japanese business customs. To navigate this complex environment, Smith teams up with Captain John Connor, played by Sean Connery, who acts as a cultural intermediary. Their investigation uncovers a suspicious missing surveillance disc, hinting at a larger cover-up.
The detectives link the victim to Eddie Sakamura, a man connected to a rival company of Nakamoto. Evidence eventually points to Sakamura as the killer after the missing disc surfaces. However, when Eddie refuses to surrender, Smith and Connor discover a tangled web of deceit involving corporate politics and murder, revealing deeper corruption than initially apparent.
The film was released during a time when racial tensions were highly visible in Los Angeles, particularly following the Rodney King incident and subsequent 1992 riots. These social dynamics play a role in the story, as Smith wrestles with issues of racial inequality within the police force and broader society. The anxiety over Japanese corporate influence in America also underpins much of the narrative, with Smith often feeling marginalized, while Connor cuts through the cultural barriers more smoothly. Though the murder mystery drives the plot, Rising Sun’s commentary on race relations is blunt and prominent throughout the film.
The On-Screen Chemistry of Connery and Snipes
Unlike typical 90s action films, Rising Sun features limited high-octane sequences. Instead, it delivers a thoughtful thriller experience where Sean Connery’s Captain Connor uses his experience to proceed through the labyrinth of Japanese customs, and Wesley Snipes’ character represents the audience’s perspective, learning and adapting to the complex situation. While Connery engages in some notable action moments, including a memorable confrontation with a bouncer and an apartment shootout, Snipes balances restrained physicality with bursts of his signature martial arts skills during a fight against Japanese security personnel.
Wesley Snipes deliberately toned down his martial arts prowess and smooth charisma to allow Connery’s character to take the lead as the knowledgeable and mysterious figure. Rather than appearing overshadowed, Snipes counterbalances Connery’s gravitas by embodying a more assertive, street-smart officer, creating a strong partnership quite distinct from the comedic leads in films like 48 HRS. or Lethal Weapon. When Connery passed away in 2020, Snipes shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling that Connery
Challenged me to keep my SUN Rising and each day thereafter was GLORIOUS
. This collaboration with Connery helped Snipes evolve into a commanding presence capable of matching cinema greats like Sylvester Stallone, Robert De Niro, and Eddie Murphy.
Background and Creative Team Behind Rising Sun
Directed by Philip Kaufman, known for his thoughtful work on The Right Stuff, Rising Sun brought Michael Crichton’s complex novel to life. Crichton, also the author behind Jurassic Park, crafted a story blending intense crime drama and cultural commentary. The film weaves together themes reminiscent of Black Rain’s East-West tensions and Basic Instinct’s passionate crime intrigue, along with elements of a dark buddy-cop movie akin to Lethal Weapon.
Although the film faced criticism for its portrayal of the Asian community, particularly for depicting businessmen and criminals in an unfavorable light, Rising Sun remains significant in cinema history for addressing these sensitive topics during a turbulent period in American race relations.
Main Cast and Characters
The film stars Sean Connery as Captain John Connor, an ex-British intelligence officer with a sharp intellect who brings seasoned experience to the investigation. Wesley Snipes plays LAPD Detective Web Smith, a tough and street-smart cop learning to navigate cultural complexities. Supporting roles include Harvey Keitel as Lt. Graham, who oversees Smith’s squad, and Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Eddie Sakamura, the suspect linked to the murder.
The Cultural and Social Relevance of Rising Sun
Set during a time when concerns over Japanese corporations’ growing influence in America dominated headlines, Rising Sun explores the unease within the business world and law enforcement. It reflects the racial inequalities and communication breakdowns experienced by minority officers like Smith, positioning him as an outsider struggling for respect. Meanwhile, Connery’s character symbolizes authority capable of bridging cultural divides, though the overall message remains stark.
Despite its mixed critical reception, which includes a modest 32% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film’s exploration of race, power, and corruption resonates beyond its narrative. The complex portrayal of Japanese-American relations and the role of multicultural tensions ensure that Rising Sun remains relevant for contemporary audiences reexamining the era’s social climate.
Legacy and Influence on Wesley Snipes’ Career
Rising Sun marked a pivotal moment for Wesley Snipes as he proved his ability to stand alongside an icon like Sean Connery without being overshadowed. The film allowed Snipes to tone down his usual action-hero persona while demonstrating a nuanced approach to character work. His portrayal of Web Smith helped him mature as a leading man in Hollywood, ready to share the screen with established stars and command serious dramatic roles.
The partnership with Connery is often remembered as a career-defining experience for Snipes, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. It also underscored his capacity to embody characters who grapple with cultural and racial complexities, an aspect not frequently highlighted in his previous roles.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How long did Sean Connery live with dementia?
A. Connery’s partner of 45 years mentioned that he couldn’t communicate in the months before he passed away. She felt it wasn’t a fulfilling life for him. However, she found comfort in knowing he died peacefully in his sleep.
Q. Are Harrison Ford and Sean Connery friends?
A. Ford was already known as an action hero and was a perfect fit for the daring archaeologist role. Their different styles and playful exchanges made their on-screen partnership a standout feature of the movies. Despite being 12 years apart in age, Ford and Connery formed a true friendship built on mutual respect.
Q. Is Sean Connery dyslexic?
A. Sir Sean, originally from Edinburgh, didn’t have dyslexia. However, learning to read transformed his life, and he loved to inspire others to read.
Q. Did Sean Connery get along with his son?
A. Even though Sean eventually separated from Jason’s mom, he still formed a strong bond with his son. In a 1990 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Jason said, “My dad is great at being a father. I’m not afraid of him, but I do want him to be proud of me.”
