After enjoying "Kabe" immensely, I was really looking forward to seeing this movie. It did not disappoint. It had all the Yoji Yamada touches. The strong central characters with comic relief provided by the excellent supporting cast. The sense of changing seasons. The low angle Ozu-type end-of-scene shots. Most of all, the celebration of the lives of regular people and a heartfelt salute to those who quietly give their all, everyday. Like all Yamada movies, this movie is full of heart - you laugh, you cry. There are no special effects and no animation - just a lot of love. I will watch anything this guy writes or directs. I'm glad the Berlin Film Festival Board seems to feel the same way too.
Review of About Her Brother
