Films & Schedules - NORWEGIAN WOOD

Set in the late ’60s when Tokyo universities were rife with political unrest, Watanabe is a student whose deepening relationship with the emotionally fragile Naoko is haunted by the specter of a past tragedy. Caught between her emotional and then geographical retreat and the expanding world of college life, Watanabe’s loyalty is tested by adventurous best friend and dilettante Nagasawa and the enchanting and strikingly independent Midori. The themes of awakening, loss, and melancholy that ripple through both the novel and the Beatles song from which it derives its name are perfectly accentuated by an evocative score from Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead, gorgeous production design, and lush cinematography. “A languorous, visually striking movie about life, death, art, freedom, and responsibility.”—The Guardian, London (133 mins.)

Filmography: The Scent of Green Papaya (93), Cyclo (95), Vertical Ray of the Sun (00).

Sponsored by the Consulate-General of Japan in Portland.

FILM REVIEW

Interests: Narrative Feature, Asian, History.