JOURNEY TO THE SHORE
Love And Death
released OUT NOW! 2015 | 12 | Blu-ray/dVd (dual format)
Director Kiyoshi Kurosawa Cast eri Fukatsu, Tadanobu asano
Though director Kiyoshi Kurosawa is best known for his work in the horror genre – such as 2001’s Kairo – this Japanese drama is a very different kind of ghost story. Gently romantic, it’s a film with moments of quiet stillness, philosophical dialogue, and a hint of saccharine sweetness.
Three years ago, Mizuki’s husband Yusuke went missing – turns out he committed suicide by drowning. Now he suddenly reappears, looking just as he did in life. You’d expect Mizuki to scream her head off, but instead she reacts with calm acceptance, remaining as buttoned-up as her sensible cardigans. The way the film presents its fantastical events is just as understated.
It becomes a sort of paranormal road trip, as the couple visit places Yusuke stayed on his long journey home. Everywhere they go they seem to inspire confessions, as people unburden themselves of their feelings about dead loved ones. The message is rather obvious – leave nothing unsaid, as you might regret it later – but mildly affecting all the same.
Extras Trailer. Ian Berriman
For another tale of a loved one mysteriously returning from the grave, try 1972’s Neither The Sea Nor The Sand.