Written and directed by Miiku Sakanishi, after his father-in-law breaks his leg, Yuta travels to a rural town in Kyushu to lend a hand at the photo studio he runs in this beautiful meditation on memory, time, and the power of images to connect people and family. Starring: Moeka Hoshi, Issey Ogata, Yu Kashii, Masayo Umezawa and Tasuku Emoto.
In this day and age, there are a lot of people who simply no longer have the patience for humble, wholesome cinema, and they’re missing out on experiences like Memorizu. Miiku Sakanishi crafts this utterly earnest, endearing, unassuming atmosphere. The cinematography from Kamakari Yoichi gorgeously reflects that. Together Sakanishi and Yoichi build a charming, understated aesthetic which lays the groundwork for the story to play out at its own pace.
Sakanishi does however make an effort to build phone shots into Memorizu as a way of exploring how those home-videos keep the family connected, and that unfortunately undercuts the aesthetic. Thematically, it makes a lot of sense, and you can see the intention, but it is the weakest element of the film. Moving from such a lovely, sweeping visual to these shots via phones is a slightly jarring transition and doesn’t as symbiotically reflect the overall atmosphere.
It’s one outlier in what is otherwise genuinely touching and satisfying viewing. The way that it moves quietly gets under your skin, you don’t quite realise how moved you might be by the changing relationship between Yuta (Tasuku Emoto) and his father-in-law Makoto (Issey Ogata) until it happens, as it’s so gradual and organic. It’s gratifyingly simple, little moments of consideration and care which open up Makoto’s view of Yuta. As well as Yuta’s view of the village and its inhabitants being opened as he’s immersed in it.
There’s also a lot of subtle layers at work, particularly exploring how we view our family members and our responsibilities towards them. However, one that especially stands out is the idea of aging and facing mortality, which Issey Ogata does a wonderful job of capturing. Ogata and Emoto make for a wonderful duo, to watch how their characters warm to one another is quietly moving.
Memorizu is a wonderful piece of wholesome, humble cinema. Every element portrays the earnest nature of the film, the direction and aesthetic especially. It captures the idea of how not just modern technology keeps up connected but how meaningful it can be to have photos and videos of the past to revisit feelings and time with loved ones who have since passed. As well as how you can find joy in the little things. It’s really well put together and everyone is on the same page with the atmosphere and intention. The cast are all lovely and effortless to watch. It’s simple but layered, sweet and highly enjoyable.
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