Mo hozue wa tsukanai

Been watching Yoichi Higaschi films on the occasion of his birthday. I have seen his films from the 90s phase but haven't explored his older catalogue. I have read that Jun Ichikawa was a fan of this film. A slice of real life in '70s Japan. A story of a woman's emancipation. A young female student and her troubled relationships with two boyfriends. All the actors are really good at this, but the leading actress is giving a truly superb performance. A touching and sincere film, with a but great direction,that doesn't try to show off.

Kaori Momoi is mesmerising as Mariko, as her "just their" performance really emphases her "sleepwalking" thru her life, as you become so invested in her. The scene just of her eating celery on the verge of tears is heartbreaking and really, really, really well done.