Country: Japan

An extraordinary story about how ordinary people cope with the very worst that can happen and how love is a remarkable bond.

A grand tale of men banding together to fight an unrelenting evil, content to die if they can free their land from the marauding tyrant and his gargantuan army.

This Japanese blockbuster is like a head on collision between a big budget disaster flick and a Lifetime/Hallmark/True Movies film of the week.

A portrait of quiet hope and self-worth painted with the delicate strokes the director so often uses.

‘A Distant Cry From Spring’ is the very best of Yamada’s themes, contained in a truly beautiful masterpiece that leaves tears in the eye as the credits roll.

‘About Her Brother’ showcases Yamada’s deft understanding of the Japanese family, yet has a universality that ensures each significant moment hits home no matter where in the world it is viewed.

‘Adrenaline Drive’ is often hilarious, sometimes filled with genuine tension and with a humanity at its core that is a delightful addition to the many other strengths.

‘After The Storm’ doesn’t quite hit the heights of ‘Our Little Sister’, but it is another world class contribution to cinema by one of the modern masters.

For a change, ‘Alien Vs. Ninja’ is an amusingly titled, low budget action movie that actually lives up to expectations.

‘All-Round Appraiser Q’ is a winning crime film with a brilliant heroine and a very pleasant dynamic between her and the adoring acolyte Yuto.

Exquisite cinematography, immense talent behind the lens as well as a superb lead performance all add up to create an inspirational masterpiece.

This sumptuous work was lauded on its release and in this reviewer’s mind was not deserving of quite the reception it got at the Japanese Academy awards.