The Parades

Good japanese thriller about the afterlife, that happens about the time of Fukushima disaster. The rhythm of the story is slow.

It follows a woman that is a soul without accomplishing her objective at Earth (it can be in or out life).

Good characters, sensitive movie - maybe not fit for everyone. It have a Ghibli characteristics to it, without the cute characters.

Good photography, but do not expect FX effects to compensate the natural / supernatural interactions.

But in the end it lacks something to enhance it more - maybe more emotion on the scenes to bring tears to the eyes. My score: 6,5 / 10,0 / B-.

"The Parades" is a powerful film, brought to life by expert script and direction. I watched the Japanese version with English subtitles, immersing myself in the superb art direction, sound design, and filming that together help to realize the director's vision on screen. The background piano music is just right-it enters like a seasoned actor and leaves without overstaying.

Actor Lily Franky delivers an incredible performance as Michael, with Masami Nagasawa as Minako and Ryusei Yokohama captivating as Shori the Yakuza gangster. In fact, all of the actors deserve credit for their superb acting. Watching them navigate their character arcs was a highlight, moving through the carnival ground and cabins, which serve as a wonderful metaphor for Limbo, reflecting on their lives and unresolved issues. It's also wonderful to find camera movements that work with the pace of the film, adding to its unique charm.

For too long, I have been watching run-of-the-mill films that lack any substance, mere fodder for the brain. "The Parades," however, will stay with me for some time as I try to explore some of the subtlety in the film. The art direction is so precise I want to watch again and capture what I missed the first time.

Some experts have not given kind reviews, but they are the experts whereas I'm just a viewer who loved it. I hope there are many more like me who will find its depth and beauty as engaging as I did.

In conclusion, writer/director Michihito Fujji has created a masterpiece. This is the first time I have seen his work, and I suspect his influences would be from other writer/directors Akira Kurosawa, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Roberto Benigni. Their impact on his storytelling and visual style is palpable, making "The Parades" a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that marries profound themes with exquisite execution.

The movie was great. I cried for some parts and would've rated it 10 overall since I really liked how the story was built and written. It was such a masterpiece. The scene, the place and the characters. I felt very nosy diving in each of their lives but fascinated as well. It teaches us an obvious lesson to love our loved ones and don't take anything for granted.

However, even though it was such a good film, I felt like it was lacking. I really feel like there should be something more. Maybe because it ended in such an abrupt manner and would've loved to know more about the aftermath. Like what's the point of showing us the "after" when you wouldn't elaborate it or really SHOW us the after, not just the glimpse. That's what.

Overall, the movie was great but lacking near the end. The actors are so good at acting and doing their roles. It may sometimes feel like "why is she like that?!" but that's really how one would react when put in a situation like that. Well, a solid 8/10.

This movie is excellent and gives an interesting perspective into the life after death genre. Heartfelt and well done in all respects. I loved the ending and think it is well worth the time. Michihito Fuji did a wonderful job writing and directing this feature. I look forward to seeing his other movies. The actors in this film did an awesome job. The music was just as fantastic. If you get the chance please watch. Get your popcorn and candy ready and if you've a tendency for tear jerkers you might need some tissues as well. Just sit back and enjoy. This movie is definitely a ten out of ten and would watch again.

This film came out a few days and there isn't a single review so I decided to write one because I want to recommend it.

I decided to watch it because of the music (radwimps is my favorite band). The first thirty minutes are like an introduction and from then on it gets better as we spend time with the characters from the group. The film is only two hours long but it made me feel for each of the characters, which was amazing. It is an emotional movie, sad and hopeful, made me cry at least five times. This was the most I have cried in any movie I think.

I wish this film would get more recognition, as for now there are not many votes on this platform. But it is very good. I liked the ending and the final song. Read the plot and if it interests you, give it a try.