The most recognizable trademark of Somai is the use of long takes, creating a kind of rupture between reality and the inner emotions of the characters.
The first 15 minutes of Lost Chapter of Snow (1985) is probably the best crafted long take of his career.
His influence has been cited by Ryusuke Hamaguchi and Hirokazu Kore-eda as well as critic and theorist Shigehiko Hasumi.
[4] Japan Society presented the first North American retrospective of his work in 2023, which included the world premiere of Typhoon Club's 4K restoration.
[4] In 2024, Japan Society would present Somai's Moving with lead actress Tomoko Tabata.