Review of Lost in Translation (2003) by Gregory G — 09 May 2014

Sofia Coppola's second feature is a rarity; an understated comedy-drama that favors mood over plot. Bill Murray is an American movie star in Tokyo, separated from his family, to shoot a whiskey commercial.

He meets a young woman (Scarlett Johansson), who is with her photographer husband (Giovanni Ribisi). Their chance encounter leads to a brief friendship. This is a movie about Americans feeling isolated in a foreign country and the communication gap that exists with the Japanese.

Coppola gets laughs at the miscommunication, often at the expense of the Japanese, who are somewhat offensively portrayed as broad caricatures. Bill Murray gives a subdued performance, similar to his role in "Rushmore," but his weary look and moments of self-satire are affecting.

Johansson is equally compelling as a twenty-something in search of an identity while feeling aloof from her husband. Their brief connection leads to a final adieu that is perfect. Coppola has the sensibility of the great European directors; particularly in her sense of rhythm and nuances.

In the end, the movie is regrettably lightweight. Written and directed by Sofia Coppola. Executive produced by Francis Ford Coppola. Sofia Coppola won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. With Anna Faris, Fumihiro Hayashi, Catherine Lambert, Akiko Takeshita, Akira Yamaguchi.