Lost in Translation

johnny_ultimate · 11-05-2010 12:35AM #1

I think if any film from the 2000s is to be recognised as a classic, Lost in Translation should be. It isn't quite my favourite film of last decade, but it's damn close. It is, though, amongst the two or three films I tend to revisit most.

The sights and sounds are just hypnotic. The cinematography is stunning, the soundtrack a mellow joy (credit to Kevin Shields and all the contributors). It is one of those movies that is pure cinema, understanding perfectly the senses that a film appeals to. You can just chill out with Lost in Translation, taking in the audio and visuals. Sofia Coppola and her team totally understands the medium, and Lost in Translation is a feast for the eyes and ears.

It's so simple. There is nothing taxing about this film, it just totally clears my head when I watch it. The film only really concerns two people, and while others drop in and out, the narrative is simple and compelling enough that it doesn't necessarily require you to think about it. It keeps you involved throughout, no need for subtexts or anything - this is a romance, and that's all it has to be.

Bill Murray, of course, is god. I'm pretty sure I don't need to elaborate on this.

Scarlett Johanson has never been so appealing. Her role is a perfect mix of innocence and confusion. She doesn't try to be too sultry and seductive, like she has in pretty much everything since. She is revelatory here.

I'm an unashamed Japanophile, I love the country and how the culture. Now, there are better films about Japan, most of which, incidentally, are actually Japanese. But LoT is different - it captures how an outsider perceives their culture, why it is so interesting to so many. That scene when Murray and Johannson walk through an arcade - a wonderful cacophony of beeps and blips - is just one example that captures the hyperactive energy of Japan, while the Kyoto scenes perfectly show the comparative serenity of the culture. People accuse the film of being 'racist' - this is missing the point. Japanese culture is radically different to the West, and yeah Coppola plays this up for laughs. The point, though, is to capture the alienation and oddness of the culture and LoT does this perfectly - these are two people alienated in a radically different place, and of course alienated in their life on the whole. Lost in Translation reminds me why I love the country and culture so much.

It's also really, really funny. Mainly because Bill Murray is god, but those Suntory filming sessions, or that moment when Bob up with a giant plush toy ("I guess it can be for you") are just hilarious.

The ending is perfect. Not good. Not brilliant. Perfect. The conclusion - a private moment in which we are distant observers - is heartbreakingly ambiguous, and yet full of hope & warmth. The moment has ended, the viewer allowed to make up their own mind about what follows. When Just Like Honey starts playing, it marks the end of the film, but I always like to think that these characters story is nowhere near over. I smile every time.

Lost in Translation is a simple film, but one which I can watch over and over again without ever getting bored. I'm sure people dismiss it as light, and others claim it is racist. Perhaps, but it is one of the greatest romance stories ever told. Just two people, a foreign city, and their separate uncertainties. Sofia Coppola, with a simple story and two wonderful actors, has created what is, for me anyway, one of the most memorable, rewarding, rewatchable films I've ever seen.

Zaph · 11-05-2010 12:48AM

I completely agree. It never ceases to amaze me when someone tells me they don't like the film, to me it was in my all-time top 5 almost instantly. It's just such an amazing film visually that it's one of only two films that have literally left me speechless when I left the cinema. The other was Star Wars when I was 10, that's how much of an impact it made on me. The screenplay is spot on, it doesn't need filling out with all sorts of superfluous rubbish, and the acting performances, particularly from the two leads, are wonderfully understated. Throw in a superb soundtrack and, as johnny already said, the perfect ending, and you have a film that I hope will one day earn the appreciation of a much wider audience that it so richly deserves.

bluto63 · 11-05-2010 10:23AM

Reading that kinda sent shivers down my spine, I forgot how much I love the film! It really is understated. I feel like watching it again now

Zascar · 11-05-2010 10:26AM

Maybe I should watch it again cause I didn't like it much and could not really understand what all the fuss was about.

daveyboy_1ie · 11-05-2010 10:31AM

Loved it when I saw it first in the flicks and could hardly wait for it to come out on DVD.

I saw it in a half full cinema, and by the end my mate and I were the only two left watching it, I had never seen so many independent groups of people just get up and go. I had to work hard to not let it not affect my concentration as the whole movie experience was one of the best I had ever had. I had gone travelling on my own in SE Asia the year before (not the same culture I know) and I fully got the isolation and 'being on my own' experience of the two charectors who gravitated to each other despite hardly being on each others radars in other more familar circumstances.

Loved this film when I saw it first and still do today. Visually splendid and a great insight into the Japanese youth pop culture as i have now been to Tokyo and got it all over again.

Basq · 11-05-2010 10:42AM

Superb writeup johnny!

This is one of those films that gets a terrible rep from a lot of friends who describe it as "boring" and "uneventful" but it's one of those films where people completely miss the point. It's full of wry dry light humour, and some of which is quite close-to-the-bone in terms of Japanese way of life, but it can be absolutely side-splitting (all due to Murray who is at his best here.. but to be honest, Murray is rarely not at his best!).

It is the definitive film about relationships.. not specifically about love or romance, but a story about a relationship that exists between two people from a different way of life and the obvious age difference.

This, 'High Fidelity' and '500 Days Of Summer' (to a lesser extent) are the three movies I associate with most realistically depicting relationships.

But 'Lost In Translation' does it best.. as it's the best portrayal of a relationship that isn't about a "will-they-won't-they" scenario or leading the viewer into a false sense of a long-term relationship between these two people.

The visuals, sights, sounds and backdrop of Tokyo have never been so alluring and enticing. Unfortunately, I've never been.. but this film will definitely leave you with a longing to go there. And as johnny said, the soundtrack is mellow and perfect for easy-listening. And I, for one, will never be able to listen to this song without associating with 'Lost In Translation':

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITVS2r-Fw5k

It's an utterly sublime film!

And d'ya know what has depressed me now? I don't even have this on DVD or Blu-ray.. off to buy it!

EDIT: It's not even out on Blu-ray!?! From Wikipedia

Lost in Translation is currently only available on DVD and VHS format. The film was also released in high definition on the now defunct HD DVD format, but there has been no indication on whether the film will be released on to Blu-ray.

davenewt · 11-05-2010 11:07AM

Good thread! Watched this again myself recently - the pace of the film, the understated threads running through it, and way the cinematography pulls you in and immerses you in the sights and sounds of Japan is blissful.

Perhaps LiT is itself lost on people who haven't experienced that culture shift or sense of being so far from your comfort zone. Having been to Japan myself, LiT just hits a lot of buttons for me.

Would have loved to experience this on the big screen.

...and Bill Murray on that treadmill cracks me up every time. "Help!.... HELP!"

uncleoswald · 11-05-2010 11:09AM

I don't think it will ever be thought of as the best film of the decade as its too polarizing. And although I can see how its not for everyone I am often surprised by the degree that some people dislike this movie. Also the rest of the film is so gentle that the glaring attacks on Spike Jones and Cameron Diaz leave a sour taste. But there is nothing at all racist about the movie, as you say its quite the opposite. Its written from the outsiders point of view so the differences are magnified both for a sense of alienation but also for humour. Having been to Japan it is a relief when you find something Japanese you can laugh about as it so much better then feeling alienated.

Sofia Coppola is often criticised for making fluff pieces but that is rubbish. By focussing on the smaller incidents of human relations, the bits that other movies leave out (and in the final scene leaving out the bit that other movies hang on) Coppola gets us really under the skin of these characters so we don't even need to be told what Murray whispers to Johanson, we might not know it word for word but we understand it.

While its great that Katheryn Bigalow finally gave us a female Director Oscars winner by giving us a high quality "lads" flick I think it could have been more fitting for Coppola to have won it for LoT.

Also, well done to everybody for not lowering the tone of this thread by mentioning Scarlett's arse....ah crap.

Basq · 11-05-2010 11:12AM

uncleoswald wrote: »

Also, well done to everybody for not lowering the tone of this thread by mentioning Scarlett arse....ah crap.[/LEFT]

.. well, I didn't mention it persé!

delbertgrady · 11-05-2010 11:28AM

Loved it when I saw i in the cinema. Still love it. Bill Murray was robbed that year when they gave the Oscar to Sean Penn for Mystic River, the most scenery-chewing performance of his career. Murray's performance is at the other end of the scale, a masterstroke of subtlety.
From a production point of view, I also love the fact that the film was basically shot, guerilla-style, in four weeks, including some set-ups in places where they didn't even have permission to film.
And I have to say that one of my favourite moments in cinema is when Scarlett rests her head on Bill's shoulder.

Sanjuro · 11-05-2010 11:30AM

Two thumbs up for this entire thread!

I thought Bill Murray was phenominally good in LiT. It's probably second only to Rushmore for his best performance. And even Johansson, who's generally a pretty but pretty poor actress was very good in it.

johnny_ultimate · 11-05-2010 11:37AM

uncleoswald wrote: »

Also the rest of the film is so gentle that the glaring attacks on Spike Jones and Cameron Diaz leave a sour taste.

Yeah, that is definitely the closest thing to a 'problem' in this film. The Anna Farris scenes are quite cynical and bitter in contrast to the optimism of the rest of the film. On the other hand, the presence of Rabisi and Farris is clearly Coppolla trying to vent about her own personal life. It does seem a little off with the rest of the tone though, although some of those scenes do work in a cringey sort of way!

One other thing I forgot to mention about the ending was the infamous whisper. There are loads of youtube clips trying to decipher what is said, but I really don't think it matters. Going by everything that has preceded it, and Charlotte's emotional reaction to it, it is definitely better that whatever is said is kept quiet, and I'm sure most viewers will at least guess the general tone! Their reactions genuinely say more than any brief exchange ever could.

Renn · 11-05-2010 11:43AM

This, 'High Fidelity' and '500 Days Of Summer' (to a lesser extent) are the three movies I associate with most realistically depicting relationships.

I'd probably go with My Summer of Love, Funny Ha Ha, Conversations With Other Women, The Puffy Chair, Humpday, In the City of Sylvia (not as much), In Search of a Midknight Kiss and Before Sunrise/Sunset (once again, not as much).

Just my two cents. But for the 'most realistic' one I'd probably pick Funny Ha Ha.

Sanjuro · 11-05-2010 11:45AM

johnny_ultimate wrote: »

One other thing I forgot to mention about the ending was the infamous whisper. There are loads of youtube clips trying to decipher what is said, but I really don't think it matters. Going by everything that has preceded it, and Charlotte's emotional reaction to it, it is definitely better that whatever is said is kept quiet, and I'm sure most viewers will at least guess the general tone! Their reactions genuinely say more than any brief exchange ever could.

Yeah, I don't really get why people try to deceipher what's being said. Had it been vital to the overall plot, Coppolla would have had it audible. There's gotta be some mystery to life, and this is a prime example. It's a far better thing that it's left unsaid as it challenges to audience to draw their own conclusions from Charlotte's reaction. Great move on Coppolla's part.

uncleoswald · 11-05-2010 11:48AM

basquille wrote: »

.. well, I didn't mention it persé!

Was there an image/youtube clip of it then? Stupid work browser filter.....

johnny_ultimate wrote: »

Yeah, that is definitely the closest thing to a 'problem' in this film. The Anna Farris scenes are quite cynical and bitter in contrast to the optimism of the rest of the film. On the other hand, the presence of Rabisi and Farris is clearly Coppolla trying to vent about her own personal life. It does seem a little off with the rest of the tone though, although some of those scenes do work in a cringey sort of way!

It certainly doesn't ruin the movie, and without knowing the back story of it the bitterness might not even come through. And Anna Farris is actually really good in it, has a more likeable screen presence ever done as many unlikable films?

Basq · 11-05-2010 11:51AM

For anyone who hasn't seen it, anyone who saw it and didn't fully understand what makes it so good or anyone who loves it and this thread has made them want to watch it again (myself included).. it's on late Thursday night / Friday morning on Film4:

Lost in Translation (2003)

A lonely and past-his-prime American actor travels to Japan to film a commercial. During a depressing night in the hotel bar, he meets a spirited younger woman and it is not long before the pair strike up a close friendship, exploring Tokyo and helping each other face the mundanities of everyday life. Comedy drama, starring Bill Murray, Scarlett Johansson and Giovanni Ribisi

Film4 - 12:45am-2:50am (2 hours 5 minutes) Thu 13 May

starviewadams · 11-05-2010 12:00PM

Great film,great music!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKN3QodIRW8

Renn · 11-05-2010 12:06PM

It's difficult to appreciate any film that Scarlett Johansson appears one. Unfortunately it's been too long since I've watched this so I've forgotten everything about it apart from the karoke scene. Must say that I'm not in any rush to rewatch it.

jimmyendless · 11-05-2010 12:20PM

Back then it felt like Scarlett Johansson was a really credible up-and-coming actress but she has just taken boring and typical roles since.

I can't think of a movie where the soundtrack was just as important or even more so than the visuals. Amazing collection of songs and I really like the bonus track of Bill singing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjoefTJ14PQ

bnt · 11-05-2010 01:05PM

I realised, after watching it, just how crucial the sound design was. Not just in the obvious ways, but also in the little things, the quiet background sounds. I've found myself stuck in a hotel before (in a Canadian winter), and you enter this bizarre state of cabin fever ennui, drifting from meal to meal, from book to TV, and so on. The rumble of distant traffic, the hum of air-conditioning, the clicks and thumps from the elevators ... which is why it's such a relief when they escape from the hotel in to Tokyo. I should watch it again, with my new headphones on.

bnt · 05-08-2010 11:33AM

Roger Ebert has just added Lost In Translation to his Great Movies list, here. If you're one of those folks who just don't get what the fuss is about, I'd recommend reading that, and perhaps have a few brandies before trying to watch it again.

MrSir · 05-08-2010 12:06PM

It's just such a wonderful film perfect in nearly every way. I really don't understand how people can't like it surely anyone could connect to the story like I did. And films rarely have such honesty like when she asks him about marriage
"Does it get easier?"
"No"
It's just perfect.

davenewt · 05-08-2010 12:21PM

Thanks bnt, good article

Must re-watch. Again...

Valmont · 05-08-2010 12:43PM

Most people, when asked what their favourite film is hum and hah and say that there are too many to choose from. I always say, without a doubt, Lost in Translation. It has been my favourite film for five years now as I bought it in an HMV sale for six euro. I've watched it seven times and it hasn't gotten old yet. It's funny, touching, orginal, inspiring and has an absolutely cracking soundtrack and score. It shatters traditional formulas by simply exploring a different type of relationship between two people and the ending leaves only a shadow of a punctuation, giving us a real sense of wonderment as Just Like Honey creeps up on us with the credits.

Lost in Translation turned me on to My Bloody Valentine- Kevin Shield's psychedelic band, it turned me on to the comic and dramatic excesses of Bill Murray's acting career and it also turned me on to the quirky originality of Sofia Coppola. In short, Lost in Translation, for me, unleashed a fountain of joy, inspiration and culture that I actually I can't imagine being without. The funny thing is, I'm deadly serious!

tunguska · 05-08-2010 01:52PM

Beautiful film, in every way. I went to see it in cineworld one afternoon by myself and I loved every minute of it. Loads of walkouts in the cinema, which was hilarious, I know quite a few people who went to see it thinking it'd be this laugh-a-minute comedy, just because Bill murray was in it.
Im a fan of films with great cinematography and this has to be up there in terms of how it looks. Did it win best cinematography at the oscars that year? Bill Murray is on top form, but also supprisingly enough, is scarlett(although she has gone backwards since). As has been said already, the music by kevin shields is perfect. Great ending aswell. An absolute classic.

PhiloCypher · 05-08-2010 02:30PM

People have already elucidated more eloquently then I could on this films many qualities so I wont even try, instead I'll just point out my favourite Murray moment I refer of course to this scene during the filming of the Suntory ad :

Director: [in Japanese] Mr. Bob-san, you are relaxing in your study. On the table is a bottle of Suntory whiskey. Got it? Look slowly, with feeling, at the camera, and say it gently - say it as if you were speaking to an old friend. Just like Bogie in Casablanca, "Here's looking at you, kid" - Suntory time.

Ms. Kawasaki: Umm. He want you to turn, looking at camera. OK?

Bob: That's all he said?

The double take Murray makes to the translator in this scene sells it completely.

krudler · 05-08-2010 04:46PM

Love this movie, I put it on when I cant sleep and doze off watching it, thats not an insult to the film, its just really nice to listen to, great soundtrack, the ambient background noise in the hotel scenes and stuff like the photoshoots is really relaxing.Although I usually get woken up by the time a Japanese guy is belting out God Save The Queen

Valmont · 05-08-2010 09:56PM

Great thread! It's time for viewing number eight I think!

TheIrishGrover · 05-08-2010 10:24PM

Great writeup Johnny. I've been to Japan a couple of times and am going there again in a few weeks (If anybody wants anything small like pins etc I'll be going to The Ghibli Museum and they do wonderful pins and film strips etc. PM me). I loved LiT. The tone, Murray and of course SJ. As you said, nothing really happens: Two people meet, they connect and then part. But the pace and the sights and sounds are fantastic.

I went with my niece last time and happily she had her LiT moment. Similar to Murray's encounter with the person in the hospital. We were walking to a festival in Asakusa. The festival wasn't starting for a couple of hours but we wanted to watch preperations. We were walking down a traditional preserved street when we met this TINY, very old woman dressed in very traditional dress. Not kimono because you still see that quite a bit there but she was dressed for the festival. Her hair was the same colour as my niece: Red. She pointed to niece's hair and obviously was commenting on the matching colour. She then started obviously explaining (Althought we couldn't understand a word) that she was dressed for the festival because she showed my niece all her traditional gear and pointed to various items and buildings and parts of her elevated platform clogs and paper ornimental umbrella etc. All speaking a mile a minute.

It was a beautiful little moment that will stay with my niece and myself for ever.

Ridley · 06-08-2010 12:13AM

Only film that made Japan look boring for me, and I've happily watched a rainy, empty, Shonan Beach Marina on webcam.

Fromvert · 06-08-2010 05:28AM

I normally can't watch the same films regularly but there is just something about this film that I can watch it again and again.

My favourite shot is when Murray is playing golf, it only lasts a few seconds but it's just beautiful scenery with the mountain in the background.

Lost in Translation

Comments