Directed by Izuru Narushima, this powerful biopic details the life of legendary poet and novelist Kenji Miyazawa, one of Japan's most beloved children's authors. As the eldest son of Masajirо̄, a wealthy pawnbroker and modern man of the Meiji era, Kenji was raised with the expectation that he would one day inherit the family business. However, the free-spirited Kenji is determined to walk his own path in life, and takes it upon himself to pursue agricultural studies, synthetic gemstones and other eccentric ventures. Despite struggling to keep up with his son's ambitions, Masajirо̄ remains supportive as ever throughout Kenji's unorthodox pursuits.
Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, this incredible story depicts the power of family and unconditional love that endures through times of hardship. With standout performances by Masaki Suda and recent Cannes winner Kо̄ji Yakusho, the pair's depiction of fatherly love on the silver screen is sure to bring a tear to your eye.
"The film rises above [..] box-office formulas, [..] with the purity and undying strength of the characters’ love for each other. That is, it’s very Miyazawa-esque, in the end."
- Mark Schilling, The Japan Times
Saturday 30th September
128 min
CTC
Izuru Narushima
Film Festival
Palace Verona
