Stereo Future

I have to disagree with the previous comments, as I in fact both enjoyed the film and laughed. I must say this could be because I went into it expecting nothing and have fallen out of touch of current Japanese movies. So what I am saying with this last point is, maybe this is something (at least in style) that has been made of late.

This aside, I think what really captured me was the blend of visuals, the samurai sequences and soundtrack. I found some of the writing forced, particularly with the Danny character (the nature guy), he seemed too young, or the writing too overdone for part. Perhaps it was the script that was weak, but the performers (particularly the Japanese leads) that were able to gain a greater understanding of the writing. I don't mean to knock the lone-non-Japanese in the film, he did a fine job when compared with other Japanese films written for non-Japanese characters.

But I suppose a movie has to be more than just visual and audio. And while I agree and hour and 50 min. was a little long for this film, there is a spirit or heart that is within it that I think asks (if not demands) the viewer put aside a few of its flaws and give into this artistically-done popcorn film.

Those are my thoughts ... for now.

I watched this one only yesterday and enjoyed it thoroughly.

Where some others may claim this film to be a case of "style over substance", I whole-heartedly disagree.

Eri is suffering a trauma after splitting with her ex which causes her to become mute. Meanwhile, the said ex is pursuing his ambition to become an actor, which we find out as the film progresses, was the chief cause for them breaking up.

With a powerful message conveyed underneath the story of how each copes following the break-up, this film oozes style and beauty - and given the underlying theme, it's obvious why it was shot in such a way.

True, it's not hilarious all the way through, but there are some very funny moments during this drama/romance/comedy which actually made me laugh out loud.

I would recommend this film to anybody who is looking for something a little different... just try to stomach the really annoying American and you'll be okay.

another movie where there are no characters but things that just look interesting. unfortunate unless you are at a museum the "pretty pictures" dont deserve your attention for an hour 50 minutes. okay so it tried also to be a comedy but i didnt even come close to laughing.

This movie really makes me want to visit Japan even more so!

The cinematography in this film is so relaxing - emphasizing the beautiful tranquility of nature; the main theme which serves as a metaphor throughout the story. Add a great soundtrack of electronic beats and some really mellow sounds (Eri's theme) and that's another level to enjoy it on. What about laughs? Kengo is fun to watch as his scheming ways just makes you crack up in almost any scene he's in. There are some real funny scenes on location of a samurai movie, but if you watch, it looks like the whole cast and crew had a blast making this. Thenm there's our sweet Eri who's situation is fragile as a disturbed ecosystem. Some great scenes include indoor photo shoots, flirting, non-sappy romance and a really cool place to get some fresh air.

Nakano's Stereo Future has its own life and I tracked this Japanese edition DVD just to see it. It's one of my favorites. Remember, don't buy Altechi!!

This film seems to be a kind of love affair with certain aspects of Japanese culture, with a prominent environmental theme thrown in. There are also recurring vignettes about the shooting of a samurai film, an American guy meeting the stunning Eri (Akiko Monou) who is dumb (cannot speak). Some of this film is lush and beautiful, some parts are just stunningly photographed. While the characters are strangely interwoven, its still an interesting though non-mainstream film. There are the obligatory scenes with trains and a little bit of madness, which turned out to be funny. One of the things I liked about this film was its central message, about being part of the world. Not for mainstream viewers, be a little adventurous and watch it. I liked it.