If Hal Ashby were alive and making short films in Japan, this would be on top of the list. It's a rarity to see a short film that doesn't pander or opt for a cheap bite-size candy payoff. The fact that a USC film grad (American at that) went to Japan to film this with a Japanese cast and crew is alone worth kudos for sheer audacity.
But that fact aside, the film is truly great because of the basics: authentic writing, direction and acting that is deceptively sparse; meaning it actually breathes rather than pushing or forcing anything on the viewer.
We look forward to seeing more films from Mr. Young.
But that fact aside, the film is truly great because of the basics: authentic writing, direction and acting that is deceptively sparse; meaning it actually breathes rather than pushing or forcing anything on the viewer.
We look forward to seeing more films from Mr. Young.
