Adrift in Tokyo
Japan, 2007, 101 min
We’ve all heard the saying “the simpler the better,” but Adrift in Tokyo, Satoshi Miki’s fifth film, proves the cliché true. The film follows Takemura (Jo Odagiri), a no-good, directionless, lonely man who’s currently in a financial conundrum. He finds himself repaying his debt by walking through the streets of Tokyo with Fukuhara (Tomokazu Miura), his debt collector. Their foot journey leads them through a series of meaningful and witty conversations, and interesting run-ins with various odd and eccentric people.
Satoshi Miki utilized a mundane task like walking and created a beautiful film that is both funny and endearing. He did not rely on elaborate film techniques to keep the viewer interested; he relied solely on an amazingly written script and the strength of his actors. Adrift in Tokyo has smart dialogue and amazing performances by both Odagiri and Tomokazu, which created a dynamic film that is both quirky and a joy to watch. |
