Part comedy, part romantic drama, My Darling is a Foreigner over exaggerates in its humorous depiction of foreigners, while additionally representing how people can feel particularly displaced in alien environments. Occasionally produced in documentary style format, in which couples comprised of a Japanese woman and a foreign man respond to questions regarding their relationship, with often comical answers, the film also incorporates brief narrative segments from lead character Saori (Mao Inoue), during which she discusses her professional and relationship status in English, the gradual improvement in her linguistic capabilities affirming her commitment to romancing a foreigner.
At the same time however, Saori's dedication towards other aspects of her life appears to wane, and despite her aspirations, she is certainly open to other considerations, a decision that puts her at odds with her father (Jun Kunimura), who doesn't appreciate her 'go with the flow' attitude. Moreover, despite Saori's desire to be a Manga artist being encapsulated on screen, through not only artistic imagery that helps move the plot along, especially in regards to how she met her boyfriend, Tony (Jonathon Sherr), but through her continuous struggles as an illustrator, this part of her life deserved further exposure, especially in regards to her passion, alongside its culture and reception.
Although Tony's ability to speak Japanese is exceptional, he does occasionally appear ignorant of Japanese cultural traditions and mannerisms, however these seem to have little impact on the issues faced during the relationship. Although Saori is initially bothered by her father's disapproval towards the love she and Tony feel for one another, which he vocalizes upon meeting him at her sister, Mika's (Ryoko Kuninaka) wedding, she appears willing to disobey his personal judgement, though Tony seems more inclined to respect her father's opinion, despite his personal dismay.
The negative experiences during the relationship appear to be related towards household chores, and the expression of issues in order to address bothersome concerns, however, those raised by Saori's father appear to accentuate these, the build-up of tension regarding the lead characters causing the audience to question whether the relationship has longevity.
Moving on, the film contains thought provoking moral lessons regarding cultural acceptance, which are especially voiced by Saori's mother (Shinobu Otake), who occasionally appears to be depicted as the heart of the production. The use of accommodating other beliefs and traditions, alongside adapting to changes and allowing room for the inclusion of alternate practices is subtly developed by the characters, and is appropriately used, which assists in establishing some emotionally tender moments.
Ms. Inoue deserves further credit for the adorable expressions she conveys during the film, which depict her disapproval and appreciation. With this thought in mind, it's Saori who often steals the show, which is further evident in the lack of exploration regarding Tony's character. Although discussions towards his profession are established, he is never shown in an occupational setting, though we assume he is beneficially adding to their income judging by their economically comfortable situation. At the same time, the foreign friends Tony affiliates with occasionally verbalize what can only be described as racial slurs towards Japanese culture, that make these characters difficult to appreciate.
Moreover, although the romantic climate of Saori and Tony's relationship is efficaciously produced, their affection being conveyed through verbal exchanges and chemistry, we are infrequently provided with physical examples of their feelings. I'm not advocating for any sensual material, however, even a peck on the cheek may have assisted in visually developing the relationship. This, and the addendum the film does not appear to always accurately convey the legitimate issues that may culturally arise between two people from different worlds, aside, My Darling is a Foreigner is a very sweet romance about the lengths people go to show their love, no matter how great the boundaries or differences.
