Japanese Story

Released: September 25 2003
Cast: Toni Collette, Gotaro Tsunashima, Matthew Dyktynski, Lynette Curran, Yumiko Tanaka, Justine Clarke
Director: Sue Brooks
Genre: Drama
Rated: M 15+
unning Time: 110 Minutes


Synopsis:
A feisty Australian geologist Sandy Edwards (Toni Collette) lands the unwanted task of showing a Japanese businessman Tachibana Hiromitsu (Gotaro Tsunashima) around the mines and deserts of the Pilbara, with a view to selling his company the unique geology software she has been developing. Hiromitsu meanwhile, mistakes her as his driver, and demands they trek to the desert, blissfully unaware of the dangers.
Against the background of this elemental Australian landscape, these two strangers journey further and further into the West Australian desert, leaving more and more of what they know about each other and themselves behind.
Some stories can change your life. This is Sandy's story.
Sandy's "Japanese" story.


My Verdict:
Toni Collette is simply brilliant in Japanese Story. She plays Sandy, a very Australian geologist who has to escort Tachibana around the mines of the Pilbara. Sandy doesn't want the job, but lands it by default and reluctantly meets Tachibana who mistakes her for his driver. They instantly dislike each other, she thinks he is sexist and too straight, he thinks she is too aggressive and loud. Their silence is deafening as they travel the Pilbara. Tachibana insists Sandy drive him further and further into the outback. She tries her best to convince him of the harsh brutality of outback Australia. Soon, they are bogged in the middle of nowhere and they are forced to work together to try to get their car on the road again. It is this dilemma that draws them together and each learns about the other that perhaps their first impressions may have been hasty. Eventually they release the car and this moment is wonderful as they rejoice in their victory. The two cultures meet and mingle with one another as they continue their journey and learn more about each other.

Japanese Story is a visual feast due to the location - the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The scenery is stunning and as Tachibana observes 'there is so much space'. Australians often take this space for granted, but Tachibana reaches a spiritual reckoning at its beauty. It is enough for him to simply stare at the landscape and wonder in awe at its beauty. Sandy observes this dawning in Tachibana and she too begins to change her perception of the land.

Japanese Story is a heart-wrenching story that never falters. It was indeed a privilege to see this movie and to be so touched by it. It is emotionally powerful and fulfilling and is one of the years most evocative movies.

Some movies can change your life.


- Christina Bruce