I agree with the reviewer who wrote the movie is too long, but its running time is a small flaw I'm willing to overlook. In fact, it's truly a slow-burn police procedural/thriller. It requires patience.
The direction is on spot. The cinematography is not innovative, but the lush widescreen shots are sumptuous. The supporting cast deserves accolades, to say the least.
However, the reality is that the musical score is purely stunning. Its romanticism is immersive, to the point I was questioning during the first act why a crime mystery/thriller would employ a score reminiscent of Franz Waxman or Max Steiner. But after enduring the overlong running time, it made sense.
An absolute must-see for fans of Japanese cinema and a recommended watch for fans of procedurals/mysteries. But if you are a die-hard fan of film music, shame on you for skipping this one.
The direction is on spot. The cinematography is not innovative, but the lush widescreen shots are sumptuous. The supporting cast deserves accolades, to say the least.
However, the reality is that the musical score is purely stunning. Its romanticism is immersive, to the point I was questioning during the first act why a crime mystery/thriller would employ a score reminiscent of Franz Waxman or Max Steiner. But after enduring the overlong running time, it made sense.
An absolute must-see for fans of Japanese cinema and a recommended watch for fans of procedurals/mysteries. But if you are a die-hard fan of film music, shame on you for skipping this one.