Director: Isao Tukisada
Main cast: Takao Osawa, Kou Shibasaki
Links:
JAP CHINESEIn the past, I'd think, "Hey, I'd NEVER go watch a ROMANCE film." Yucks >_< *
But, thanks to sista ANT, I finally broke that record. Yikes.
For a start, it's a jap film with Eng and Chinese subtitles.
Guy handsome, girl pretty.
Nice scenery.
Sounds too formulaic?
You'd be surprised...
Let's take a look at a review from:
Leglessbird Movie GuideFrom the team that brought you Love letter, another great movie. Very good story and acting. This is an adopted version of the best-seller book in Japan. Highly recommended, one of the most touching stories that I have watched. Made out of the best-seller book in Japan of the same name.
I often asked myself when was the last movie that touched me so much to point of crying. This is certainly one of the movies that I will always remember.
Love of the purest is always sweetest and unforgettable, especially with a sad separation by death and an unaccomplished wish. In the movie, Aki asked does love disappear after death, is that really the end of everything. To the people who are still alive, the love will carry on forever, their loves are always on their mind.
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Mel's reviewOpening scene: Night view from hospital window. Heavy showers outside. Strong winds howling. Typhoon 29 approaching. Time is running out. Can the girl reach the centre of the world before Leukemia gets her?
The movie itself transports the viewer to and back 1986 and the present time.
1986 - when the young couple were in their high school days.
Guy (Saku) - a bit of a bummer, but rich in emotions and rides a scooter
Gal (Aki) - the popular girl, excellent runner, cast as Juliet in school play
What I like about the characters:Aki - Her angelic face. She's far more mature than the other girls her age ( doesn't sob during the principal's funeral). Takes the initiative in snagging her guy (actually waits for his scooter after school the 1st time they meet), bravehearted (thinks it's romantic to sneak into a tomb yard at midnight to 'steal' something), persevering (stays up late in order to win a walkman) and philosophical (able to make sense of events happening around her) and KAWAII!!!
Saku - none actually. keke.. Well, kinda ordinary.
The Love StoryUnable to forget his first love Aki who died many years ago and before he marries his fiancee, Saku (now 30+) listens to all the cassette tapes Aki recorded for him when they were together in high school. He is brought back in time as he reminisces the sweet yet tragic relationship they had. After all these years, he realized that he'd been trying to run away from reality..
Unforgettable scenesTheir first kiss in the hospital ward
His marriage proposal to her (they were 17 then)
Their names under the umbrella
Waiting at the airport
The last tapeWatch out for the twists in the ending part of the story. You'll love it!
Pace is a little slow.
My verdict: 3 stars *** (Take your time)
Soundtrack: 3 stars ***
Tears shed: none
