geer-9

I was anticipating a respectful homage to Ozu's Tokyo Story. What I got was respectful but a very different take on Ozu's classic. Watching the first half was a little worrying as the movie took its time establishing the characters and setting the scene, with the obligatory nods to Ozu's super low camera angles. Had Yoji Yamada lost his way while eulogizing his hero? But this start made the second half really shine as you really knew the characters, and became involved in their actions since we understood their faults, and wondered if, or when, they were ever going to develop and change. Fans of Yamada will again delight in his subtle depictions of contemporary Japan. He has long championed the innate goodness of ordinary people living in suburbs and villages away from the tourist-trampled extremes of Shinjuku, Ginza or Gion. Although his characters are imperfect, they exemplify Yamada's profound respect for the institutions of family and friendship. Additionally, Im not sure if this was a deliberate subplot or not but, students of Japanese gender-based communication style differences will find a minefield of scenes to use for generating discussion. Highly recommended for those who also believe in Yamada's values.

If you want high drama or pretentious cinema, this isn't the movie for you. If you want to see a nice, quiet love story with some superbly realized, if flawed characters, this provides a nice way to pass a Sunday afternoon. I thought the actors were exemplary - they were all very believable, so you can't help feeling for them even when you know they are wrong. There were lots of nice comic relief touches and small twists to keep you interested and make the movie entertaining. The Hollywood-style ending spoils the overall effect which is still not bad although women, my feminist-leaning wife included, may not be pleased with the finale. Provides good insight into contemporary Japan and Japanese communication styles, too.

After enjoying "Kabe" immensely, I was really looking forward to seeing this movie. It did not disappoint. It had all the Yoji Yamada touches. The strong central characters with comic relief provided by the excellent supporting cast. The sense of changing seasons. The low angle Ozu-type end-of-scene shots. Most of all, the celebration of the lives of regular people and a heartfelt salute to those who quietly give their all, everyday. Like all Yamada movies, this movie is full of heart - you laugh, you cry. There are no special effects and no animation - just a lot of love. I will watch anything this guy writes or directs. I'm glad the Berlin Film Festival Board seems to feel the same way too.