Movies
A very fun and perky romance, with strong comedy overtones and a slightly more dramatic ending. The concept should be familiar enough, but Ohku's direction gives it some extra polish. It's the first film I see from her, but it's clear that she can take a simple idea and make it into something more. There's something about the tone and rhythm of the film that makes it stand out. The introduction is a good example. Very soft and cute, but also a little strange and weary. It contrasts well with the quirky main character and her somewhat dry but ultimately upbeat romantic woes. Ohku alternates regularly between these two approaches, keeping the audience on their toes. The cinematography is beautiful, performances are also on point. The first hour or so feels fresh and invigorating, the second half is just more of the same though and clocking in at almost 2 hours the film's a bit too long. Also, I didn't think the turn to drama at the very end was really that necessary. But otherwise well recommended.Read all
Short drama that never really finds its footing. Tadaima Jacqueline certainly doesn't suffer from a case of too little, there's enough material here to fill at least two or three separate films, it's just that it never quite gels together. The result is a film that isn't unpleasant, just very uninvolved. Two young kids are orphaned by a bus accident. At the site of the accident they find a doll, which becomes their treasure. The film is told from the perspective of the doll, who constantly comments on people around her, even though nobody can hear her. There are also minor romance elements, but they're never truly explored. Performances are decent, except the dub of the doll, which is pretty awkward. The cinematography is rather plain though and while the film has quite an original premise, it never feels like you're watching something remarkable. It didn't bore me, nor was it badly made, just a bit too inconspicuous.Read all