Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World
"I thought I might be using a lifetime's happiness in a moment. I was that happy and she was that beautiful." A young boy stands on the red earth of Australia under its blue sky. It is 17-year-old Sakutaro Matsumoto. His time with the girl comes back to him. The colored sand runs through his hands and a tear appears on his cheek. He wakes up. It's 2004 and he is 34 years old and in Japan. He thinks "I have been in a world without her for 17 years." Returning home to see his old high school for the last time before it is demolished, Saku confronts anew the loss of the love of his life, Aki, to leukemia 17 years ago. Now a medical researcher at graduate school, he has been living as if half of him died with her since then.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man returns to his hometown to sort through his late father's belongings and discovers a hidden box of letters. These letters reveal a poignant and tragic love story between his father and a young woman from years ago. Through the letters, he learns about their passionate romance, their struggles, and the circumstances that ultimately separated them, leading him to understand his father's life and love in a profound new way.
Critical Reception
The film was a massive commercial success in Japan, resonating deeply with audiences for its emotional storyline and nostalgic portrayal of young love. Critically, it was praised for its tender direction and heartfelt performances, though some found the narrative overly sentimental. It became one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of its release year.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its powerful and emotional depiction of first love and loss.
- Commended for its beautiful cinematography and nostalgic atmosphere.
- Some critics found the film's sentimentality to be overwhelming.
Google audience: Audiences were deeply moved by the film's romantic and tragic narrative, frequently citing its ability to evoke strong emotions and tears.
Awards & Accolades
Won Best Picture at the 28th Japan Academy Film Awards. Received numerous nominations and awards at other Japanese film festivals.
Fun Fact
The film is based on a best-selling novel of the same name by Kiyoshi Shigematsu, which was inspired by real-life events.
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