Movie Digest
Yuko, a documentary filmmaker, recounts a three-year-old school violence episode that concluded in suicides when she was teaching lessons at her father’s cram school. Yuko finds a hidden truth as the documentary project proceeds, and she becomes emotionally present in the affairs of the families who are affected by it.
The Feel-Good Part
This is simply a very well-crafted drama. Not much more, and certainly not less. Simply put, it’s quite solid. The core plot of the film is intriguing, and the film does a fantastic job of conveying the individuals’ thoughts and emotions.
The Disappointing factor
A fascinatingly multi-layered story, perhaps too multi-layered. There are several strands that touch on some actual and yet unsolved problems in Japanese society (and even beyond) trial by media, sexual abuse, and abortion restrictions – but they aren’t fully handled even in the slightly longer running length. The melodramatic conclusion is out of step with the previous two hours. It doesn’t ruin the movie, but it does keep it from being genuinely exceptional.
In-Depth Analysis
“A Balance” follows Yuko Kinoshita (Kumi Takiuchi), a sensationalised TV journalist who is investigating the deaths of Mr. Yano, a teacher, and Hiromi, a 16-year-old pupil. The two were accused of engaging in lewd behaviour on school campus, which resulted in their dismissal and suicide. Meanwhile, at Yuko’s father’s cram school, Masashi (Ken Mitsuishi), she sees a student named Mei (Yuumi Kawai) misbehaving.
Mr. Yano’s mom, Toshiko (Mitsuko Oka), and sister, Shiho (Misa Wada), have all been ostracised by neighbours and tormented by netizens who have issued their guilty-by-association verdicts. Of course, the network’s producer and executive aren’t delighted with the story that Yuko is developing in her report. Meanwhile, behind Mei’s destitute, turbulent, and apparently abusive single father, Tetsuya’s back, Yuko tutors and assists daughter privately (Masahiro Umeda).
Star Power
Kumi Takiuchi as Yuko provides a tenacious portrayal, highlighting all the facets of a multifaceted character with a quiet artistry aided by her physical stance, face expression, and a crooked smile that communicates volumes on occasion. Yohta Kawase’s performance as her producer is also highly believable, as a man torn between his want to support for himself and his family and his desire not to dishonor his director, with Yuko’s ability to “win” in their arguments a credit to his character.
Overall Opinion
Yujiro Harumoto’s movie is contemplative and calm. A Balance does have a documentary aspect to it, although it’s more dramatic than most documentaries. The scenes take its time to establish and the audience to absorb the emotional tone of the film. It’s a bit long, but it’s a fascinating watch.
