Director:
Year: 2014
Genre: Psychological
When I think of a psychological or psychedelic film, the first director I would think of is Satoshi Kon - with his film Perfect Blue - however, this film is another gem which I've just found out. In a way, has some similar traits in there but is told in a unique way.
It's about Makoto, a student who can see this mysterious man, which I can describe as the Slender man from that game.
It is another short film that only lasts about 25 minutes, within the first five minutes of the film you are already hooked into the story. While watching it, it makes you think about what will happen to Makoto and how the film will plan out. It has the elements of friendship/relationship with the character Hazuki in the film which balances the psychological elements at the same time which I certainly think is a smart way to include another element in the film - granted that it's executed properly and only used when it's needed.
However, why do I think it's smart for the director to add this in? In everyone's darkest hour, there's always a certain person we can talk to, and just be there for anyone. Hazuki, who may not have had an impact in the film can symbolise how if you're going through a tough time, it's always good to have that person you can rely on. There were certain moments of the film where Makoto had to do things to save her (trying my best to not spoil it), which symbolises how relationship with people can save you. You can say that loneliness has somewhat of a significance in the film. Sometimes being lonely can have an effect on a person - which was showcased very well when Makoto felt hopeless with Hazuki.
Makoto has a way of talking to these hidden characters whom he can only see. It's like having the ability to see what are your inner demons brought into real life. It's almost having constant reminders of the mistakes you've made and what needs to be done to fix them. It certainly reminds me of Perfect Blue elements of having a strong impact of duality in the film and it almost reminds me of some of Satoshi Kon's work elements used to this day.
The film has a strong acceptance of things you can't change and what things you must accept for you to move on. It teaches you how to not be afraid and just live your life. The message which it portrays showcases a strong message for everyone, don't take life for granted and don't let the inner demons inside your brain let you get in the way of doing what you live. When you hear the word death, it's not a positive word for anyone. Makoto teaches all we are all going to die one day, and it's important to not be afraid. This message is almost like a wake-up call in a way. I still am shocked by the amount of detail that goes into the narrative structure of the film.
With its twists and turns and its well-written storyline, I would say that 25 minutes is too short for this film. If this film had a longer run time, who knows what ability the director could have had. I'm still shocked to know how is this story written in a short amount of time. The hidden messages which were in the film are explained well and leave you with that emotional connection with the audience - which makes you ask more questions about what the director was conveying instead of saying the story was this or that. For me, a good film is when an audience asks more questions about what happens for a reason instead of whether the way the story is told is good or not.
This film is certainly a hidden gem and it's 25 minutes. So what are you waiting for? Check it out and let me know what you think of the film!
Rating: 9.5/10
wah strongly recommended ah. I must see this