Reviews

The Struggle of Loving Japanese Cinema From the Outside

BFI IMAX in Waterloo No one really talks about the "struggle" that fans of Japanese Cinema, like myself, go through by being fans outside of Japan. This experience is often overlooked, yet it is a nuanced topic that deserves attention and deeper exploration. While I fully acknowledge that this may fall under the category of "first-world problems," the challenges faced by international fans of Japanese films are multifaceted and can significantly impact our engagement with thi

2 days ago3 min read

Everything I'm Watching Right Now: Best Netflix Originals, Anime Series, and Upcoming Japanese Dramas Worth Adding to Your Watchlist

If you're constantly searching for your next great binge-watch, you're not alone. Between Netflix originals, classic Japanese dramas, and the ever-expanding world of anime, there are more viewing options than ever before. Recently, I've been diving into a mix of thought-provoking films, visually stunning anime, and exciting upcoming releases that deserve more attention. From melancholic Japanese dramas to action-packed anime adventures, here's everything I'm watching right no

Jun 46 min read

Human or Machine? First Impressions of Hirokazu Kore-eda’s "Sheep in the Box"

The "Kore-eda effect" is back. As Japan prepares for the nationwide release of "Sheep in the Box" on May 29, 2026, early preview screenings have left audiences on social platforms like X (formerly Twitter) in a state of emotional reflection. Returning to an original screenplay for the first time in several years, the Palme d'Or winner is trading his typical domestic realism for a "low-sci-fi" lens—and the results are reportedly devastating. The Premise: A "Little Prince" for

May 122 min read