by Arran
Japanese film Wonderful World End is Matsui Daigo’s fourth motion picture focusing on the teenage psyche and exploring the boundaries of young relationships. Following the short-lived modelling and acting career of 17-year-old Hayano Shiori (Hashimoto Ai), the film perfectly captures the fickle nature of adolescents and the slight ambiguity of their intentions. At once being hilariously random and painfully nerve-wracking, Wonderful World End is edgy and raw, making it a rewarding experience to see.
This film is fun to analyse, however at times difficult to comprehend from a western cultural experience. There was a disconnect with the characters, as they explored attaining fame through a very public and teasing peep show manner versus creating intense art, throw in some under age stalking and a gothic manga style for a very Japanese flavour.
Fortunately, the plot was strangely whimsical enough to carry it through with only a few moments passed to check the time and is ultimately an intriguing watch.
FURTHER COMMENTS
Arran: Narra?
Narra: Wow, you were harsher than I expected. Although I do agree it wasn’t the best film. I was very confused by the relationship of the two female protagonists.
Arran: Yes, that was confusing. I didn’t understand whether they were in a relationship or if it was just an odd kind of sisterly bond.
Narra: I know! I didn’t think it really said anything either. I thought it would have a profound message because of some of the creepy stalker-ish scenes in the beginning and middle of the film but then I realised it was just a coming of age film.
Arran: It wasn’t completely un-profound though. It did bring up some interesting ideas about image obsession and in a way I like that they didn’t overtly express whether they were in a relationship or have a clichéd ‘coming-out’ dilemma.
Narra: Hmmm, I guess. However, I think the profound plot idea isn’t justified. After all, the film is partly funded by singer-songwriter OMORI Seiko’s label, which really seemed to take up a large part of the story line with lengthy montages and scenes shot with her songs in the background. I wouldn’t be surprised if a large majority of the film was inspired by those songs or vice versa.
Arran: Yeah, that does explain a lot about the film’s random scenes but you’ve got to admit; some of those songs are pretty damn catchy. Narra: Yes, well what are your final thoughts?
Arran: I think I’m torn now… Before I really thought about the meaning of the film I quite liked it but now it does seem like a crude advertisement.
Narra: Wait- so you’re actually in agreement with me? You think this film sold out a little?
Arran: Yes and for that I can only give it 2 and a quarter stars.
Narra: Can you rate a film with a quarter? Arran: Well it’s my review so yes, I can. What do you give it?
Narra: Just because I know rebellion; I’m giving this film three stars. At least there was a truthful depiction of the fickle nature of teen relationships
Wonderful World End
Melbourne International Film Festival
Tue 11 Aug
Thu 13 Aug
11:00 am