AFTER THE STORM

This is a Japanese family drama film which explores the issues associated with a marriage breakdown and the emotional upheavals when a reconciliation is attempted.

Ryota (Hiroshi Abe) who is separated from his wife Kyoko (Satomi Kobayashi) is financially inept and unable to pay child support owing to his gambling habit. He desperately wants to be a good father but discovers that it has been difficult trying to become the man he wanted to be.

The family reunite as a typhoon is passing and Ryota hopes that a reconciliation can ultimately be achieved.

The story builds slowly in this lengthy film, much of the script needlessly concerned with Ryota’s livelihood as a private detective which heightened the slow pace of the story.

Scenes where father and son discuss their relationship are the most fulfilling, but audiences may find it difficult to connect emotionally to these characters owing to a lack of sensitivity in the script.

This tries to be a well-intentioned, poignant and feel good film, but unfortunately doesn’t quite reach its full potential. (MMo)

★★★

Screening at the Japanese Film Festival: Nov 17-27. Event Cinemas, George St. $18.50-$75(5 film pass). Tickets & info: www.japanesefilmfestival.net