Anyone seen this? I watched it recently and was very impressed. It tells the story of an aging beaurocrat who discovers he has stomach cancer - leaving him only six months or so to live. He examines his life and realises that he hasn't truly 'lived' in many years, so sets out to redeem himself... It's the kind of existential tale that has often been attempted by Hollywood, but rarely if ever done with such clarity and such genuine heart. Takashi Shimura is outstanding in the lead role - his performance is subtle and extremely effective; you really sympathise and care about his character. Certainly one of the most beautiful films I have seen.
Ikuru pulled me out of a year long depression. The swing scene is in my top 5 moments ever captured on celluloid.
