Japanese Story Movie Review 2003

Headstrong Sandy (Collette) is a geologist by trade and part owner of a software firm who is obliged to entertain a potential client, Hiromitsu (Tsunashima), an uptight Japanese businessman looking to experience the Australian landscape. Despite her objections he insists that they drive into the desert where they end up stranded for a night amid the harsh elements. Their struggle to endure brings them closer but their eventual affair (he's married) is marred by a dramatic plot twist midstream that shakes Sandy to her core. Gorgeous scenery provides a striking backdrop for Brooks' passionate piece while Collette displays great depth as a woman challenged by a gamut of emotions.

Distribution

Sony Pictures Home Video, Sony Pictures Plz., 10202 W. Washington Blvd., Culver City, CA 90232, Phone: (310)244-7306, Fax: (310)280-2485, URL: http://www.spe.sony.com, Remarks: Formerly Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment

Available on DVD
Running time 105 minutes.
Originally from Australian.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Interracial Affairs, Down Under, Romantic Drama, Deserts

Screenplay

Alison Tilson

Cast

Toni Collette, Matthew Dyktynski, Lynette Curran, John Howard, Gotaro Tsunashima, Yukimo Tanaka, Kate Atkinson, Bill Young, George Shevtsov, Justine Clarke

Cinematography

Ian Baker

Director

Sue Brooks

Music

Elizabeth Drake

Other

Peter Grace, Jill Bilcock, Kelvin Sexton, Margot Wilson, Paddy Reardon

Producer

Sue Maslin, Gecko Films, Samuel Goldwyn Films