Cinema Prescription

Synopsis: A single mother is determined to reunite her family after she is diagnosed with terminal cancer
Cast: Rie Miyazawa, Hana Sugisaki, Joe Odagiri, Tori Matsuzaka, Aoi Ito, Yukiko Shinohara, Taro Suruga
Screenplay: Ryota Nakano
Directed by: Ryota Nakano

This Japanese’s submission to next year’s Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film does not exactly have the most inspired or groundbreaking story. In fact, if I’m not mistaken, even a ‘cancer film’ is a genre of its own in Japanese cinema. I was actually expected it to be just another tearjerker with overdramatic approach, but boy was I wrong. HER LOVE BOILS BATHWATER really provides enough twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout, and really set it apart from the similar kinds of movies.

With the right balance of acceptance and optimism, Rie Miyazawa as the matriarch gave an incredibe performance. But for me, Hana Sugisaki as Futaba’s teenage daughter Azumi, really shines the most. I love the way this movie also portray flawed characters but never fully judge them for their decisions. Though, I might think some characters could be utilized a little bit more.

It can be really predictable and cliche in some occasions, but writer/director Ryota Nakano treats this tragic tale with the right amount of courage and humor. This movie is an ode to strong women, and mothers in general; whose passion, figuratively and literally, can warm your soul. A tale of how selfless love and forgiveness really are the keys of peaceful and fulfilling life. [B+]

A copy of my review on Instagram.