Last month, we told you about some of our favorite Japanese-books-turned-movies. With the weekend right around the corner, we wanted to share another edition of great movies with you!
Kitchen. Novel by Banana Yoshimoto.
If you love food, then Banana Yoshimoto is a great author to read. Her writing often goes into detail about the food her characters eat, the meals they prepare, and their close relationship to Japanese cuisine. 'Kitchen' is no exception. Although it may be considered "vintage," the 1989 film version of 'Kitchen' is definitely a classic must-watch for any fan of Yoshimoto's writing. If you're looking for a more modern adaptation, you can check out the version filmed in Hong Kong and directed by Ho Yim in 1997.
Tony Takitani. Short story by Haruki Murakami.
Tony Takitani is fun to say and to watch. It was initially published as a short story in The New Yorker and later adapted into a film directed by Jun Ichikawa. Toni Takitani follows the story of a man who lives a lonely, solitary life due to the problems that his "American" name has brought him. It's a heartbreaking tale of love and loss.
There is No Lid on the Sea. Novel by Banana Yoshimoto.
Another great film adapted from Banana Yoshimoto's novel is 'There is No Lid on the Sea.' In this cozy, cute story, we follow Mari's life who returns to her hometown to open up a shaved ice shop. A great story of friendship and determination.
Never Let Me Go. Novel by Kazuo Ishiguro.
Kazuo Ishiguro was born in Japan and grew up in the UK. 'Never Let Me Go' was his dystopian science fiction masterpiece made into an English-language film starring Kiera Knightley, among others. It's one of those films that you just want to keep watching for its beautiful cinematography, landscapes, and rich character stories.
Audition. Novel by Ryu Murakami.
A deadly killer. A lonely widower. A beautiful girl. All the right elements come together in this Ryu Murakami novel to create a frightening and chilling tale of love, abuse, and murder. It’s the classic story of how love and infatuation can blind us from seeing the true self of the other person.