Hapinesu

In this movie the gimmick is a helmet which allows one to re-experience memories.

The movie starts out very light, even sweet, then things dramatically take a turn in a completely different direction.

Beware there is some brutally violent imagery in this film.

The main character plays his part in a perfectly controlled way which makes emotional outbursts even more dramatic. Very Japanese.

I thought it was strange but very good.

SABU's heartwrenching drama/thriller about a man with a "happiness helmet" who arrives in a sleepy town to help the residents by making them remember their happiest moments using said helmet. It's a slow, meditative film that uses sharp turns in its narrative to surprise the viewer, and it does so in a very controlled, precise manner. Alternately dreamy and violent, it's a remarkable achievement on an obviously limited budget that is able to make you think deeply about memories (both happy and sad) and their effect on a person's life. It slots nicely into SABU's newer filmography with the likes of Mr. Long and My Blood and Bones In a Flowing Galaxy as another film that challenges the viewer emotionally and intellectually, but avoids flashy techniques to get its point across.

Very much recommended if you manage to find it.