Name: Nemurubaka
Genre: Drama
Released: 2025-03-20
Duration: 1 h 46 min
Rating: 6.7
Cast: Shiori Kubo, Yûna Taira, Keito Tsuna

The original work and the director are indeed a good match. The delightful dialogue and the moratorium involving (or not involving) eccentric characters on the periphery are well-executed. The adaptation into live-action is also appropriate. The dignified ending, where the characters resolutely put an end to the intoxicating comfort of a psychologically safe relationship, is deeply moving.

As a live-action film, it leaves a positive impression, exceeding expectations. While it's Sakamoto's first film based on an existing work, his artistic vision is evident throughout, and much of it contributes to a generally favorable impression.

The ensemble of lead actresses Shiori Kubo and Yuna Taira is good. While the beginning felt somewhat familiar, reminiscent of the director's previous works-especially his recent film *Baby Valkyrie*-this feeling gradually faded, and a unique character emerged throughout the film.

Especially. The narrator, Kujirai Ruka, is a character whose delicate emotions are captured by Taira Yuna's performance, which seems to constantly convey a sense of spiritual inadequacy. While criticizing those unconsciously trapped in a vicious cycle of supply and demand that only serves to satisfy self-aggrandizement and self-pity, she herself finds cheap gratification within that same circle, leading to feelings of anxiety, disgust, and a disconnect with those around her. That's what makes it so compelling.

That's why the scene at the end of the story, where she definitively brings an end to this vicious cycle, is so powerful. The way she expresses loneliness and sadness, yet also a sense of liberation and a heartfelt affirmation of her past, is simply wonderful... one could even say the film is built up to this satisfying moment.

Furthermore, the relatable atmosphere of the problematic people the two encounter, combined with the director's expertise in realistically portraying everyday people-both good and bad-makes the story of two people trapped in a vicious cycle truly compelling. The ridiculously stupid lovers' quarrel at the family restaurant was so absurd it was great. The way it portrays the insensitivity of young people, with their perfectly chosen, irritating words at just the right moment, is top-notch.

Overall, it's a well-made slice-of-life comedy that gives you a detached perspective on how surreal life is. The film itself, based on a work from about 15 years ago, appropriately captures universal themes that resonate today. It's a good moratorium film that appeals to a wide audience but leaves a lasting impression.

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