TV Show spotlight
Monkey Turn
Kenji Hatano originally wanted to be a Baseball superstar, but didn't like how one player's mistake can hurt the whole team. Upon being shown a kyotei (hydroboat) race by his Principal and seeing a special turn called a Monkey Turn, he decides to try it out. After capsizing due to a Monkey Turn gone wrong, Kenji decides to become a professional Kyotei racer. Two years later, he graduates from the Yamato Training School and promises his friend Sumi Ubukata that he'll become Japan's No. 1 Kyotei racer within three years.
Insights
Plot Summary
A middle-aged salaryman, feeling alienated and unfulfilled in his life, impulsively decides to leave his job and family to pursue his dream of becoming a writer. Along the way, he encounters a series of quirky characters and experiences unexpected adventures that challenge his perceptions of happiness and success. The film follows his journey of self-discovery as he grapples with his past choices and tries to forge a new path.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising its unique blend of humor and poignant drama, as well as the lead actor's performance. Some found the pacing uneven, but generally, it was appreciated for its offbeat charm and thoughtful exploration of midlife ennui.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its quirky humor and relatable portrayal of a man's midlife crisis.
The lead performance is often cited as a highlight, bringing depth to the character's journey.
Some viewers found the narrative a bit meandering at times.
Google audience: Audience reviews are not widely available in English. Those that exist often mention the film's unique Japanese sensibility and its focus on personal transformation.
Fun Fact
The film's title, 'Monkey Turn', refers to a specific type of sudden, unpredictable change in direction, mirroring the protagonist's unexpected life choices.
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