Stay

Stay reminded me of my time living in Tokyo. Easy to like this movie for the story or scenery. The main characters dilemma would be something unheard of in old Japan and reflects changes in modern Japanese society. Good stuff

Having lived in Japan as a foreigner, I really appreciated the look(s) of this movie. Rookie cinematographer Goldberg conveys the obvious expanse and energy of Tokyo but also the intimacy found in its finer fractal dimensions. Both leads are infinitely watchable. Though at first I thought the dialogue and cuts were too slow, in the end I believe they were suited the characters and were in useful contrast to the city. The odd dynamic between the lovers eventually makes perfect sense, and never before has an unresolved ending been so satisfying. The entire team putting this film together is to be commended! With a little bigger budget, maybe they could actually spring for a fight scene. ;) I will eagerly follow the future efforts of this talented crew!

This film is a love letter, not only between the two main characters whose brief but passionate encounter leads to something more but also to the city itself. Darryl Wharton-Rigby has outdone himself in his tender treatment of a city that might have appeared harsh in different hands and could only be achieved by a director who lives in Tokyo. I'm giving it 8 stars because I wanted to know more of Hope's backstory, but everything else makes me want to linger over Stay. A true gem!

This romantic film's male lead is great. But the real star is the city of Tokyo.

"Stay" is an amazing production. It is beautifully shot, and its direction and casting are stellar.

The story felt so natural. After experiencing the opening sequence and beginning to sympathize with Ryu's despair, magic occurred. Soon, I was rooting for him to get his life back and for him to convince Hope to "stay."

The chemistry between the two lead actors, Shogen (Ryu) and Ana Tanaka (Hope), feels like watching two people really falling in love while their banter and playfulness retain the story's cinematic quality.

Glimpses into specific aspects of Japanese culture are refreshing, but the story and its themes are universal.

Writer and director Darryl Wharton-Rigby has delivered with this one. I look forward to this brilliant storyteller's next film.