Review of REBIRTH (YOKAME NO SEMI/THE CICADA ON THE EIGHTH DAY) 2011

Based on a novel by Kakuta Mitsuyo, and thoroughly grounded in her novel’s visionary exploration of female and maternal identity, REBIRTH will take you to unexpected places. Bringing to mind several Japanese films and series about kidnapping (MISSING, MY FAMILY, SINCE I TOOK YOU), in director Narushima Izuru’s REBIRTH the emotions are the most raw and revealed as generations are caught up in repercussions of cruelties and crimes.

Nagasaku Hiromi anchors the many fine performances as Kiwako, a woman on the run whose actions upend many lives. The actress’ ability to embody love and desperation and her chemistry with her child Kauru (Watanabe Konomi) make the film watchable. Less emotive, but believable, Inoue Mao plays the grown Kauru on a search for truth and meaning. Koike Eiko (TOKYO SWINDLER, NHK taiga drama THIRTEEN LORDS OF THE SHOGUN) turns in one of her finest performances as Chigusa. Yo Kimiko (SHIN GODZILLA, NHK taiga drama ATSUHIME) as Angel and Moriguchi Yoko (WHISPER OF THE HEART, THE SHOPLIFTERS) as Etsuko are effective in supporting roles.

As the film opens to courtroom drama and various confessions erupt, I am led to wonder if we the audience will be escorted on a tour of human sufferings, to question who is responsible. In fact, deeper questions will arise and unexpected characters will emerge from the frozen ground. Both the English title and the original Japanese title are appropriate to headline this story, each in their own way. Characters ruminate over the curious life cycle of cicadas, which hatch onto the earth’s surface for only seven days. Is it a mercy they will die together? What if a lone survivor outlasts his kind? What then will the world have to offer?

The film’s narrative, grounded in its literary source, keeps its focus laser-like on the questions in its characters’ hearts. REBIRTH does not have any kind words for the male of the species, though its assorted cruelties come from all directions. The film does offer a unique perspective on female resilience.

REEL JAPAN

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