"Shoplifters" (2018)
Shoplifters, a Japanese film by director Hirokazu Kore-eda, is a poignant exploration of the complexities of family bonds and societal norms.
The film centers around a group of people living in poverty in Tokyo who are united by their need to steal in order to survive. Among them is Osamu Shibata, who takes in a young girl he finds outside in the cold and adds her to his makeshift family.
The plot unfolds in a naturalistic and understated manner, giving the audience a window into the characters' lives and struggles. The themes of poverty, family, and societal expectations are explored with great sensitivity, without ever feeling preachy or manipulative.
The acting in Shoplifters is superb, particularly from the young actress playing the role of the newly adopted girl, and the direction is masterful, creating a sense of intimacy with the characters that draws the audience in.
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty reality of Tokyo's streets while also finding beauty in unexpected places. The editing and pace of the film keep the story moving along while still allowing for moments of quiet reflection.
Overall, Shoplifters is a moving and thought-provoking film that lingers with the viewer long after the credits roll. It is a powerful commentary on the human condition and the lengths that people will go to in order to find connection and meaning in a world that often seems to have little room for them. Highly recommended.
