Review: Maborosi is easily one of the most inspiring and beautiful pieces of cinema to emerge from Japan in the last couple of decades, Hirokazu Koreeda takes a steady and slow approach to telling this tale of loss and the attempts of Yumiko to accept the hand fate has dealt her. The way it’s filmed appears quite inspired by Ozu, using single shots which capture a vast amount of the surroundings and allow each scene to develop gradually. A great deal of time has been spent with this, each shot is crafted carefully with love and passion, almost every moment your eyes are treated to mesmerizing views of the beautiful landscape, or serene moments between the family members.

Much of this movie is spent carefully exploring the emotions experienced by Yumiko after Ikou’s passing away, lightly sifting through her everyday life, focusing on certain high and low points. It manages to show how happiness is possible, even after someone cherished so dear departs from your life. But soon it’s revealed Yumiko still experiences difficulty in moving on from past events, and in a way the film itself always remains at this point, drifting slowly along with Yumiko as she tries to search for an explanation, still not understanding the path Ikou chose. Returning to the place where it all occurred only seems to generate increased tension within her, almost threatening to damage the happy family life she’s found with Tamio. She ends up more frustrated with herself, unable to find the answers needed, wanting to just lay the past to rest.

Throughout Maborosi picturesque and extensive shots are in abundance, little seems to happen in many until the weather and surroundings come to the forefront of things. With numerous scenes appearing dull at first glance, but soon become transformed just by the slightest of movements to reveal such moments of beauty as waves crashing along the coast, sparkling sunlight casting a powerful reflection upon a stagnant lake or the gradual filling of the air with crisp snowflakes.

To some Maborosi could be considered docile or uneventful, however this is only the case if you’re left unstirred by the wonderful imagery Hirokazu Koreeda paints upon the vast canvas of this film. If you’re not drawn in by the beauty offered then the experience could be challenging, with each event been drawn out some may feel it’s a case of trying to cover up a lack of substance with pretty images. This is far from true, the emotional content is apparent and often moving, Yumiko’s unease and sadness a strong contrast to the carefree joy her children experience as they explore the wonders and splendor of the village.

The sheer beauty of Maborosi and its breathtaking visuals are undeniable. Everything comes down to the viewer’s patience, and how much time one is willing to give this film. Those who persist will be rewarded with an absolute feast for their eyes and mind.