Kakera

This is a somewhat atmospheric film which explores the budding love between two young women in Japan. The pace is low till about the middle then picks up. The story is about Haru (the versatile and terrific Hikaru Mitsushima, who was memorable in Sono's "Love Exposure), who meets up with Riko (Eriko Nakamura, also very good) in a café and they explore a relationship which is at times tentative, frustrating but, ultimately, very believable. Haru's dead end relationship with a guy however doesn't immediately make her succumb to Riko's charms, which I think is probably the best thing about the film. Its a wonder not more films explore the nature of uncertainty in love and affection like this one. That the film has no intentions of being preachy or politically correct is also a minor revelation. Both actresses have bright futures in film if they stick to challenging roles like this, and director Momoko Ando's craft is also not only obvious but refreshing. I recommend this film, its truly a worthwhile slice of life.