Tanabata

A young woman navigates a complex relationship with her married lover, who is also her boss, while dealing with the societal expectations and emotional fallout of their affair. As their secret entanglement deepens, both characters grapple with the consequences of their choices and the elusive nature of happiness.

Tanabata received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its subtle emotional depth and Fukada's nuanced direction. While some found the pacing deliberate, the performances and exploration of complex relationships were widely appreciated.

• Praised for its sensitive portrayal of a forbidden romance and its exploration of societal pressures.

• Hirofumi Arai's performance as the conflicted lover was a standout.

• Some viewers found the narrative's ambiguity and slow burn to be challenging.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's mature themes and emotional resonance, with many highlighting the strong acting. Some found the story to be a bit slow but ultimately rewarding.

Nominated for the Golden Leopard at the Locarno Film Festival.

Director Kōji Fukada often uses mundane settings to amplify the emotional turmoil of his characters, creating a stark contrast between their inner lives and their surroundings.