Out of all the new released movies on the racks in Potomac Video, this movie was the only one that caught my eye and the only one I actually picked up to read the back summary. It's brilliant! It may be a little slow paced for impatient viewers but I didn't mind at at. I loved the Harunos. Ayano and Grandpa were hilarious. Sachiko was so adorable. Very nicely done. Perfect music. Absolutely loved it.
I'm normally not a fan of really quirky movies but this was tastefully done. It was like Miike (minus the sex and violence) collaborated with Toshiaki Toyoda or Shunji Iwai.
Funky Forest was my favourite film of last year and this is a strange predecessor. While FF was pretty much insane (with introspective moments, but few and far between) from the first frame, this is a wonderful blend of a meloncholy Japanese family drama and Ishi's trademark weirdness and humour. Highly recommended.
Surreal and comedic, this movie perfectly balances fantasy with reality. It's hard to constructively criticize movies you enjoy, especially those containing a giant version of a little girl and a song dedicated to mountains.
Taste of Tea is on off-beat comic drama about a family and the lives they lead. The family includes a crazy grandfather, an oblivious uncle and a daughter who is constantly being watched by a giant version of herself.
The movie does a great job of creating comedic scenarios that will have you in tears, whilst still creating lovable characters that you truly care about. The acting in the movie is great and Asano puts on a great show as always.
The Taste of Tea is definitely not for everyone. It's a bit on the long side, and it has uneven pacing, but its faults aside it is definitely a great watch for those interested in a non-traditional approach to dramatic comedy. Give it a spin and you too may discover how to rid yourself of the giant version of yourself watching your every move.
MCT:April 4, 2008
MCT:March 12, 2008
MCT:February 11, 2008
MCT:February 5, 2008
MCT:January 28, 2008
