Dir: Abbas Kiarostami | Cast: Tadashi Okuno, Rin Takanashi | 109min Drama
Sometimes a one night stand is just that
Like Someone in Love is exquisitely photographed with its references to Yasujiro Ozu depicting ordinary lives of ordinary people as they unfold randomly and realistically with the promise of something intriguing always waiting in the wings.
In Tokyo, Tadashi Okuno’s amiable, retired professor hires a prostitute for the night (Rin Takanashi) and tries to project his humanity on to her vapid character in a bid to connect in a deeper way during their brief time together. Her disappointed boyfriend feels angry and let down. It’s not Kiarostami’s finest work: the narrative descends into self-indulgence at times and lacks a clarity of purpose which eventually becomes irritating and even dull in comparison to his early films such as Taste of Cherry and Close-Up; but is certainly worth watching for its gorgeous visuals, soothing soundtrack and playfully delicate performances. MT
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