Review: My Little Sweet Pea

Japanese filmmakers are experts at crafting gentle, touching family dramas, and My Little Sweet Pea is another fine example. Director Keisuke Yoshida has made a film that is accessible and intimate, and most viewers will be touched by the film’s tender moments, while those with active lacrimal glands may even shed a tear or two. It is not all sad, however. There is actually a good sense of humour to be appreciated here, including a fun animated sequence made by Production I.G.

Review: The Snow White Murder Case

Yoshihiro Nakamura is a great storyteller. His previous films like Fish Story, Golden Slumber and A Boy and His Samurai (JFF 2011) all perfectly demonstrated his incredible ability to tell stories in a way that keeps audiences interested and intrigued from a film’s introduction to its conclusion. The Snow White Murder Case, his latest film, is another fine addition to his filmography. Featuring a great cast who all give credible performances, it is an exciting, enjoyable and entertaining film, which carries with it a simple but important message for all of today’s worshippers of social media.

2014 Japanese Film Festival Announces Additional Films For Sydney And Melbourne

Just like in previous years, the 2014 Japanese Film Festival will be featuring an extended program for Sydney (13 - 23 November) and Melbourne (27 November - 7 December). There will be a total of over 50 titles to choose from this year.

Review: Why Don’t You Play In Hell?

Sion Sono sure knows how to make fun and insane movies. With films like Suicide Club and Love Exposure, he has entertained lots of viewers and at the same time offended many others. The films’ bloody violence and obscene subject matters may well be a turn-off for some, but others don’t seem to be able to get enough of them. Now, after making some serious drama like Himizu and The Land Of Hope, his new film Why Don’t You Play In Hell? marks a return to the over-the-top style of filmmaking that he is most famous for. And the result? It's exhilarating!