Review of The Bird People in China (1998) by Tasha W — 24 Mar 2008

I've always said that the true test of a good director is versatility. Takashi Miike proves he's capable of rising above the guts and gore of cult hits such as Ichi the Killer and Audition with this beautifully shot tale of strangers in a strangeland, each on their own personal quest for happiness.

The story follows Wada, a softspoken and reserved Japanese businessman who is sent to China by his boss in search of a jade mine. He is subsequently partnered with Ujiie, a yakuza sent to keep an eye on him.

Their travels take them to a remote unspoiled area in the mountains, where a group of villagers speak of a man who once fell from the sky and imparted on them the ability to fly. An exploration of the negative impacts civilization and technology can have on the human spirit and the commonalities we all share underneath the superficial differences.