Lifebelt
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Hi!
In this episode, I talk about a manga-adapted low-budget Japanese TV show 'Lifebelt' (Ukiwa), which is directed by Kazama Hiroki \\uff08\\u98ce\\u95f4\\u592a\\u6811\\uff09and stars Kadowaki Mugi\\uff08\\u95e8\\u8107\\u9ea6\\uff09.
I knew Kazama san from Cherry Magic, and became fond of how he uses cinematography to tell the delicate exchanges of emotions between individuals, often in a workplace setting, and how he utilizes elements of fantasy to investigate longing between unlikely lovers.
First I compare his works with that of Lucy Forbes and Benedict Spence, whose works include The End of The F***ing World. I point out Kazama and Lucy&Benedict are able to transform a seemingly cheesy story plot into something profoundly moving. Their takes on humor and awkwardness are spot-on. Their cinematography enhances the style of the production.
Lifebelt follows Maiko, a newly-wed house wife, who discovers her husband Nakayama is cheating on her shortly after the couple moves to Nakayama's company's HD in Tokyo. In sadness, Maiko forms a bond with her neighbor/colleague to her husband Mr Futaba, whose wife is also cheating on him. The two neighbors, through their tiny everyday interactions, find themselves in a zone where they are closer than friends, but not quite lovers.
Lifebelt asks: what keeps/drives people together? The show is charming, stylish, fun and enlightening with beautiful scenes and solid performances.
Music
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