Well once again Howard has written a review that captures the film perfectly, I can only elaborate on what I've said elsewhere. Even though I haven't read the short story this has been adapted from, Tony Takitani feels right, I have read a few other short stories by the same author Haruki Murakami all of which have had the same deftness of touch.

Tonys life is presented as a series of short tableaus, the screen moves from left to right between each set piece as we are presented with the next moment. Colour has been used carefully, filtered to various shades of grey for the most part but with the odd subtle gentle effects where needed. A quiet, gentle meandering piano soundtrack plays throughout with only the odd smooth lazy jazz interruptions at necessary points. 

The acting is sublimely understated; the directing and editing are more than capable, stylish but only to the point of effectively telling the story. As with many of Murakamis stories, the underlying truths about modern Japanese culture flow gently through, leaving them feeling like wisps of smoke softly flowing then lingering in your mind.

An exquisite experience, a film that ably demonstrates that Japan is still producing some of the most talented filmmakers in the World.

Also the only film I can remember where the behind the scenes doc lasts almost as long as the feature.

Cheers Trev. 

R2 dvd released by Axiom, good quality but they need to do something re the burnt in subs.