Director: Hiroshi Akabane
Writer: Ryuho Okawa
Year: 2023
I can’t speak for anyone else, but I think about what, or how, I could have done things differently if my life was restarted. Sometimes I imagine I go back with the knowledge that have accumulated in tow. Every time knowing that will never happen. But it is a fun distraction. In this charming picture the main character, Masane Tsukayama, is given that exact opportunity. He doesn’t go back per se, as much as he is starting over.
Synopsis: Known as the “God of Management,” Kazunori established an enterprise on his own and earned respect from society, but after his retirement, he is all alone and lonely at a nursing home. His only solace is Asuka Yamane, a college student volunteer. One day in late autumn, Kazunori tells Asuka about his past during a walk. He tells her that although he achieved success in business, he was not blessed with family life and became all alone in the end. Deeply saddened by his life story, Asuka turns to the setting sun and asks God to grant Kazunori one wish. Knowing that Asuka is suffering from the pain of a broken heart, he wishes he could do something to help her and askes “If only I was 20 years old again…” Moments after he holds this wish in his heart, Kazunori finds himself on the campus of a university―as 20 years old man. “Is this a dream?” Unsure of what to make of the situation, Kazunori decides to begin his second life, this time with a strong determination to live with no regrets.
There are important life lessons to be found in pictures like this. While The Beatles managed to sum it up pretty with in 3 minutes and 57 seconds with All You Need is Love, it is nice to let the themes flesh out and breath a little. Akabane does a good job doing just that. Aside from a few questionable effects the film looks terrific and was very engaging.
If you enjoy indie film, and have a chance, this film is having a limited theatrical release starting today.