sourceoftheend

I went into this movie knowing only the title , "WARAI NO DAIGAKU" (UNIVERSITY OF LAUGHS) and that it was in Japanese. Having seen it, I think it's a good film to see in the theater (to share the audience's experience), but I wouldn't buy it.

The film, which is based on a screen play, may seemed a little simple/minimalist at times (and in some ways, it is). But, it's original, unpredictable, and simply enjoyable to watch as you become more involved with the interactions between the young play write and the censor.

I didn't really think of the acting while watching the film--but that's a sign of good acting, right, when the viewer doesn't second guess the events unfolding on screen. So, I think the acting was very believable and good.

From an outside cultural viewpoint, it was interesting seeing a 1940s Japan, where the streets signs aren't plagued by English or katakana. In addition to simply seeing sets and wardrobe from the 1940s, and coming to understand how comedy was back then, there are a couple social comments as well (about the war).

UNIVERSITY OF LAUGHS is not just a slap-stick comedy or purely for entertainment value, and that surprised me. Depth and personality (and conflicts) are developed in a short amount of time on screen, and social issues of the time (which still apply today) are even addressed at times.

If you want to lose yourself in a story for a couple hours while laughing a little and seeing 1940s Japan, this film is for you. But I don't think it leaves enough of an impression to become a hit with audiences overseas.

****PLEASE DO NOT WATCH THE TRAILER because it contains spoilers!! Just watch the film, trust me.********

This film pleasantly surprised me-- I recommend it whole-heartedly.

I found this film randomly at the library one day, and picked it up having no expectations. (Why hadn't I heard of it?'' I wondered. Answer: because it's independently produced.) The DVD box relays the following information: "Twenty-one year old Kyoko journeys to New York to visit a former-GI, Jose, who taught her the joy of Latin dance as a young girl. She discovers that Jose is terminally ill and unable to remember her."

So, going into the film, I had some ideas of my own about how the plot could be handled. Without discussing plot or the conclusion of the movie, I can assure you I was wrong with any assumptions I had.

Maybe it's because of the international involvement (Japan & US production) or the subject matter that I found 'Because of You' to be very original. Given the elements of the film (OK, we have Dance + Cuba + New York + Japan + AIDS), a lot of different things could be done.. but 'Because of You' does not play into stereotyping, and shows a diverse portrayal of life in America, in my opinion. I thought it was interesting to see the social interactions between the different cultures as well. (Spanish and Japanese are used at points throughout the film-- the Japanese director isn't afraid to give audiences authenticity.)

Although made in 1995, the film's messages still speak to today's audiences, but not in an preachy manner or anything.

Overall the movie is enjoyable to watch, and has the elements of a great film: great acting, good use of cinematography, compelling plot & even a great soundtrack. I recommend this movie; you should see it.

The plot of A Taxing Woman is interesting/enthralling, regardless of the production date or language of the film. Watching tax evasion cases unfold is surprisingly interesting, presented in a manner that shows the more human side of government organizations. (OK, if not the 'human side', at least you get to see what it's like on the inside.) From a cultural perspective, a 1980s Tokyo is also interesting, with shots of the cityscape, pachinko parlors, love hotels, etc.

One last comment: There is nudity in this film, but It adds to the story of the film, justifying why some of the characters do what they do.