Initially, Japanese Story reminded me a bit of Lost In Translation. Both films feature central characters with little in common who are brought together as a result of the environment they find themselves in. Japanese Story also has that same languid feel to it, wherein the story is not in any rush and is defined by a series of moments with very little dialogue. However, that is where the similarities end, as Japanese Story takes a dark turn with its romantic story angle, leaving stunned emotion in its wake.

       Toni Collette and Gotaro Tsunashima are excellent, particularly Collette. This film really allows her to stretch emotionally and she undergoes a wonderful transition as she begins to understand, and eventually fall in love with, this foreigner she has been reluctantly paired with. Many of her key scenes are without dialogue and she expertly captures and conveys the emotion of the moment through facial expression and body language. Japanese Story marks the film debut for Tsunashima and is impressive, although he cannot quite match the intensity of Collette. There is something under the surface of his Japanese businessman that Tsunashima never quite pulls out.

       Japanese Story is a film that may move too slowly for some, but I found it to be a fascinating character study and was able to forgive the pace. There are many things about the script that I found implausible or unlikely and there were several times during the film that I found myself questioning the character痴 motives. Filmed in the Australian desert, Japanese Story is as stark and stripped down as its story, providing a sense of uneasy danger while keeping focus on the characters.

       Japanese Story comes to DVD in 2.35:1 widescreen anamorphic and 5.1 Dolby Digital. There are only a couple of noteworthy bonus features, including feature commentary by director Sue Brooks, a handful of deleted scenes, cast and crew biographies, and a stills gallery.

       Japanese Story is an interesting film, a bit clich馘 in its portrayal of a developing romance between culturally different people, but strengthened by a strong script and powerful performances by its leads.