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Movie spotlight

そして たるんだ腹

2021
Movie
9 min
Japanese

A man returns to his hometown for the first time in a long time for the funeral of his teacher, and meets a girl he dated in high school. The girl is still as beautiful as she was in high school. Now an old man and an old woman, the man and woman get excited talking about old times. And then, as night falls, the man and woman...

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Yoshiyuki KishiGenres: Drama, Comedy

Plot Summary

An unassuming salaryman named Kenji faces the existential dread of middle age and a flabby physique. After a series of mundane events and personal reflections, he decides to take on a radical new challenge that forces him to confront his deepest insecurities and re-evaluate his life's purpose. The film follows his transformative journey as he navigates the absurdity of his situation with a mix of humor and poignant self-discovery.

Critical Reception

The film received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its unique blend of humor and introspection, and its relatable portrayal of middle-aged ennui. Some found the pacing occasionally uneven, but most agreed on its charm and the strength of its central performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its quirky humor and thoughtful exploration of mid-life crises.

  • The film's unconventional approach to personal transformation resonated with many viewers.

  • Some critics noted a lack of narrative momentum in parts.

Google audience: Audience reviews were generally positive, with many appreciating the film's honest and often humorous depiction of everyday struggles and the desire for self-improvement. Viewers found the protagonist's journey inspiring and relatable.

Fun Fact

The director, Yoshiyuki Kishi, has often stated that the film was partly inspired by his own observations of societal pressures and personal anxieties associated with aging and career stagnation.

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