Review of Ikiru (1952) by Kaewta K — 13 Jan 2011

Another masterpiece from Akira Kurosawa!!!

This film is very profound and touching. It asks us what's the essence of "Ikiru" (living/ to live) and how one manages to live their own life with the time they have (left) in this world.

The relationship between characters are also interesting such as Watanabe with his ignorant son along with his daughter in law, Watanabe and the young girl from the office, Watanabe and his colleagues and other officers.

People tend to judge others from their own perspectives despite the fact that they know nothing about them. They don't even take a time to ask what's going on with others' lives even though they sense that there's a problem going on ... they'd never know it hurts some people's feeling and that might be their last chance to do so.

The film also criticizes bureaucracy which is very alike what's going on in my country (Thailand). How can good-willed and determined people survive the shark tank filled with corruption, patronage system and stubborn big people who dare not to change? One exploits others and those who suffer are the poor citizen. That's a real tragic of all human beings.

My favorite scene is whenever Watanabe sings that "Life is short" song and also the scene where he's alone in the swing at HIS park. Shimura does a terrific job in portraying Watanabe. Whenever the camera closes up to his face and eyes, you can see clearly what's on Watanabe's mind without any words said.

I've learned a lot from this movie. And like what Watanabe says "There's nothing we can't do if we're determined," then why don't we start making a difference and live our life the way we want now? :).