In Koji Fukada's latest drama, two women confront their pasts in the sleepy town of Nagi. With a stellar cast and Fukada's signature subtlety, it's a must-see for fans of slow-burn cinema. Now playing in Belgian cinemas.
Koji Fukada, the master of quiet, emotionally charged cinema (Harmonium, A Girl Missing), returns with Nagi Notes, a film that unfolds like a gentle breeze through the Japanese countryside. Yoriko (Takako Matsu), an artist in rural Nagi, is haunted by a love affair she cannot mourn. When Yuri (Shizuka Ishibashi), a recently separated architect from Tokyo, comes to visit, their shared history—Yuri is Yoriko's former sister-in-law—sparks a subtle yet profound confrontation. Together, they navigate loss, identity, and the slow art of letting go.
What makes Nagi Notes special is its refusal to shout. Fukada crafts a drama that simmers, allowing silence and landscape to speak as loudly as dialogue. The film is a showcase for its leads: Takako Matsu, a veteran of Japanese cinema and television, brings a quiet dignity to Yoriko, while Shizuka Ishibashi (known for Shoplifters) captures Yuri's restless urban energy with nuance. The supporting cast, including Kenichi Matsuyama (a Fukada regular), adds depth to this intimate portrait.
Did you know? Fukada has a penchant for exploring the aftermath of emotional earthquakes, and Nagi Notes is no exception. The film's title refers to the fictional town of Nagi, but the director drew inspiration from real rural communities in Japan that are grappling with depopulation and the lingering echoes of past generations. The result is a drama that feels both specific and universal.
At 110 minutes, Nagi Notes is a meditative experience, best approached with patience and an open heart. It may not be Fukada's most accessible work, but for those who appreciate cinema that trusts its audience, it's a rewarding journey. Now playing in Belgian cinemas—don't miss the chance to see this quiet gem on the big screen.
