Review of Rhapsody in August (1991) by Isabelle W — 09 Apr 2012

A very soft story that is told very gently and deals with a harsh issue in a very bittersweet way. It's very interesting to see the aftermath of those who endured Nagasaki especially because most only remember Hiroshima.

The movie is very good and it's very well done because it doesn't get preachy trying to make anybody guilty, but it's about the last few survivors and the generational gap they have to those around them who know what happened but don't fully understand it.

Richard Gere has a very small part but surprisingly pulls it off great with actually very well spoken Japanese. It's not a Kurosawa masterpiece but it's a very family friendly conversation and contrast of modern today Japan of the 90s and those from the old Japan of WWII.

Great characters and very great ending.