Director (co-writer and co-producer) FUJII Michihito demonstrates how to capture and tightly hold on to a movie audience until the last frame is shown. This talent seems to be rapidly disappearing globally from theatrical and streaming productions except for the artistry of Japanese film makers like Fujii. The story centers on an adopted high school student's summer experiences she will not soon forget. KIYOHARA Kara plays the student in a performance that the viewer may not soon forget (see below). In the midst of discovering romantic feelings, her artistic talent, and the full story about her adoption, the student encounters a strange and mysterious obaasan (old woman) at night on the rooftop of the student's high-rise retreat. Obaasan proceeds to become the student's life mentor and does such a remarkable job that eventually roles become reversed with the student becoming obaasan's mentor. Kiyohara's performance is simply amazing to watch as she evolves her character from an insecure teenager into a strong yet compassionate (and wise) young woman. Unfortunately, the obaasan part seems to be a work in progress--miscasting? Dialog is delivered and paced at a rate that seldom requires falling back on subtitles. Opening credits are translated, but closing credits are not nor are signs, flyers, and all other pictured text. Cinematography and lighting are especially well done with all night scenes clearly visible. Closing song seems to be appropriate. Movie magic! Highly recommended. Viewed at a JICC Virtual J-Film event. WILLIAM FLANIGAN.
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