A Scene at the Sea (1992)

Though fans of Japanese cinema renaissance man Takeshi Kitano's films have undoubtedly become accustomed to lyrical, melancholy passages punctuated by sudden bursts of brutal violence, this unapologetically deliberate drama proves without question that Kitano can weave an equally compelling and effective story without the harsh edge. A Scene at the Sea is a virtually dialogue-free film that opts instead for expression to convey emotion; Kitano's choice of lead actors Kuroudo Maki and Hiroko Oshima serve him well in crafting an introspective film in which emotion is pivotal. From Shigeru's (Maki) lovingly amused gaze as Takako (Oshima) first wades into the ocean to the touching moment they spend laughing together after their silent relationship hits a minor roadblock, the longing determination they both share is flawlessly expressed through little more than facial expression and body language. Though this film may not have been what Japanese audiences expected at the time it was originally released (or what American audiences expected after seeing Brother and Most Extreme Elimination Challenge), those who are willing to release their expectations and let Kitano's touching tale run its course are not likely to be disappointed. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide