By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 3 cats
Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
Starring: Daigo Yamamoto | Haruka Ayase | Kan'ichirô Satô | Nanan Seino | Rimu Kuwaki
Original language title: Hako no Naka no Hitsuji
Year: 2026
Running time: 126
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt38551209/
Chris says: “Hirokazu Kore-eda’s gentle sci-fi/AI fable is perhaps the highest concept he’s forged since AFTER LIFE but he doesn’t do enough with it, utilizing it as a catalyst for a family drama without fully realizing its potential. If the story overall lacks urgency (or coherence), at least his directorial prowess makes this an engaging watch. The production design’s nearly as striking as, say, Almodovar’s (though more Japanese, obv.) and the references to The Little Prince which lend the film its title are thoughtful. Also, as the father, Daigo Yamamoto exhibits just the right blend of pragmatism, snark and genuine feeling. Inessential, but pleasant. 3 cats