tokyo.sora

Hiroshi Ishikawa's 2002 Japanese film observes six women in Tokyo. There is no strong bond between them; some are working, some looking for work, some speak to no one, and their paths cross from time to time. The film builds no plot. The scenes are short and mostly silent; the narrative records everyday movements, moments of waiting and empty rooms. The city is crowded but the characters are mostly alone. The cinematography relies on natural light and the sky enters the frame often, which is where the title comes from. There is very little dialogue and the music is used sparingly. Who it's for: those who like slow Japanese cinema and atmosphere-driven narrative. Who it's not for: viewers expecting a story; the film consists almost entirely of moments.