Dearest (2021)

Review Team

4/5

Dearest, directed by Ayuko Tsukahara, is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the passage of time. The narrative weaves together the present and the past, as we follow Rio Sanada, a driven businesswoman, who is drawn back into her past when she encounters her former love, Daiki Miy ... Show more >> Dearest, directed by Ayuko Tsukahara, is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and the passage of time. The narrative weaves together the present and the past, as we follow Rio Sanada, a driven businesswoman, who is drawn back into her past when she encounters her former love, Daiki Miyazaki. The film's strength lies in its character development; both Rio and Daiki are portrayed with depth and nuance, making their emotional journeys relatable. The cinematography beautifully captures the subtleties of their interactions, enhancing the overall atmosphere of nostalgia. Tsukahara's direction is both sensitive and insightful, allowing the audience to feel the weight of unspoken words and lingering emotions. While the pacing may lag in parts, the film ultimately rewards viewers with a satisfying conclusion that resonates on multiple levels. Dearest is a thoughtful, engaging film that merits attention for its heartfelt storytelling and strong performances. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Dearest is an ambitious mix of romance and mystery, but it often feels like it’s trying to juggle too much at once. The film starts with a promising premise: Rio, a successful businesswoman, reconnecting with her first love, Daiki, who is now a detective. However, the narrative sometimes gets bogged ... Show more >> Dearest is an ambitious mix of romance and mystery, but it often feels like it’s trying to juggle too much at once. The film starts with a promising premise: Rio, a successful businesswoman, reconnecting with her first love, Daiki, who is now a detective. However, the narrative sometimes gets bogged down in its own complexity, making it hard to fully engage with the characters. While the performances are solid, especially from the leads, the emotional beats can feel a bit forced at times. The chemistry between Rio and Daiki is palpable, but the film doesn’t always allow their relationship to breathe. There are moments of genuine beauty, especially in the cinematography, but the pacing can drag, leading to a somewhat uneven viewing experience. Dearest has its heart in the right place, but it may leave some viewers wanting a tighter storyline or more character exploration. Show less