Ikoku Nikki
2024 / 139m - Japan
Drama
3.5*/5.0*
Worlds Apart poster

Plot: Asa is 15 when she loses both her parents in a tragic accident in a parking lot. At her parents' funeral, her family seems unsure of what to do with Asa, so Makio jumps in and decides to take her in. Makio is not the most social person, but she feels she can be of help to her niece. Slowly, a bond starts to grow between the two.

Watches

November 16, 2024

3.5*/5.0*

A sweet and heartfelt drama in which a teen grappling with the loss of her parents is paired with an introverted, middle-aged woman. The result is a drama that slowly blossoms, as does the relationship between the two. It's not a film that tries to do things differently, rather it just does things very well.

The performances are strong, the cinematography is polished and the score is pleasant and soothing. The setting is nice too, with some summery rural/seaside views to help create that comfy atmosphere. I've probably seen a few too many films like this and Worlds Apart couldn't quite differentiate itself enough, but it's still an easy recommend for fans of Japanese drama.