Plot: A young girl who aspires to be a writer hangs out with a homeless man who spends his time sitting on the river bank. She works in a café to support herself and reaches out to the people around her, but meaningful social contact feels forever out of reach. A sliver of intrigue is added during the second half (when she discovers a corpse), but this is never really exploited as a true story element, it's just a catalyst for changed dynamics and new social contacts.
Watches
December 17, 2021
Silence and Sunset is a good reminder that Japan hasn't been doing much core arthouse cinema (not just international drama) this past decade. Umemura's film more than qualifies though. The film is slow, contemplative, minimalist and somewhat puzzling. It's a very calming feature that foregoes clear narratives or added genre elements, and simply observes as time slows down and characters go about their business. A fine score, polished cinematography and solid performances all help to get you in the right mood. A very pleasant surprise.