Memories of Matsuko 2006 Japanese Film Overview
Memories of Matsuko, known in Japanese as Kiraware Matsuko no Issho, is a 2006 Japanese drama film directed by Tetsuya Nakashima. The film was released in Japan on May 27, 2006, with a runtime of 130 minutes. It was distributed by Toho and produced by TBS alongside other studio partners.
Plot
Sho, a young teenager living by himself in Tokyo, receives a surprise visit from his father carrying a white box containing the ashes of his Aunt Matsuko. Matsuko was recently found murdered by a river in Akawara. Because his father must return to his hometown, he asks Sho to clean out his aunt's former apartment.
Upon arrival, Sho discovers a filthy residence packed with trash bags filled with junk. Having never met Matsuko or known her past, Sho goes through her belongings and speaks with neighbors, gradually piecing together a life filled with tragedy and heartbreak.
Cast and Production
The film features an extensive ensemble cast led by Miki Nakatani as Matsuko Kawajiri and Eita as Shou Kawajiri. Additional main cast members include:
- Yusuke Iseya as Yoichi Ryu
- Teruyuki Kagawa as Norio Kawajiri
- Mikako Ichikawa as Kumi Kawajiri
- Asuka Kurosawa as Megumi Sawamura
- Akira Emoto as Tsunehiro Kawajiri
- Gori as Takeo Okano
- YosiYosi Arakawa as Kenji Shimazu
Awards
At the 30th Japan Academy Prize held on February 16, 2007, Miki Nakatani won the award for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role. The film also received awards for Outstanding Achievement in Music (Gabriele Roberto and Takeshi Shibuya) and Outstanding Achievement in Film Editing (Yoshiyuki Koike). Additionally, Miki Nakatani won Best Actress at the 31st Hochi Film Awards in December 2006.
