Directed by one of my favourites, Anh Hung Tran, this movie is the modern movie of what is probably Murakami's most popular book.
So, what did you think of it?
Director: Anh Hung Tran Writers: Haruki Murakami (based upon the novel), Anh Hung Tran (screenplay) Stars: Rinko Kikuchi, Ken'ichi Matsuyama and Kiko Mizuhara
My feelings about the movie are kind of torn. I'm glad that Murakami worked closely with Anh and approved everything as it gives the movie more legitimacy.
As I expected, the cinematography and landscapes were absolutely beautiful, as were the colours. Anh is a master of this. At first I was not so thrilled about the cast selection, and in my mind I had very different images of the characters than those on the screen -- and now I cannot forget the actors faces when I read the book. But, I think Watanabe's character, and maybe Naoko's, were good choices. I didn't really like the actor who played Midori (although she did a great job) or Watanabe's college friend Nagasawa. I was also not sure about the choice for Reiko.
Anyway, all the actors did an amazing job. The story itself is of course a bit of a let down compared to the book, but that's what always happens with adaptations; the book is almost always better. I haven't quite finished the movie so I shouldn't judge it yet, but on the whole I think it is brilliant for its art and sadness, and not bad in terms of telling the story.