Review by Michele E. Hawkins.

Renowned author Sidonie Perceval (Isabelle Huppert) is invited to Japan by Japanese publisher Kenzo Mizoguchi (Tsuyoshi Ihara) to tour her re-published first book.  Sidonie has her doubts about going but in the end decides to accept the invitation.

Upon arrival, her slightly uncomfortable first encounter with Kenzo takes place.  Sidonie, out of her depth in a completely foreign culture, does her best to behave appropriately, but she experiences some discomfort.  She is also essentially withdrawn, still in mourning over the death of her husband some years back, and this makes her reticent in her interactions with others.  Kenzo, who clearly has hidden depths and some kind of inner pain, behaves impeccably as he carefully manages every aspect of the tour and gently guides Sidonie in behaving appropriately.

Bit by bit, trust develops between Sidonie and Kenzo, but what is most difficult for Sidonie is the sudden appearance of her husband, Antoine Perceval’s (August Diehl), ghost.  Whatever may or may not have been possible beyond mutual respect and trust between Sidonie and Kenzo, the appearance of Antoine is deeply affecting for Sidonie and jeopardises any other potential relationship.

Sidonie in Japan is mesmerising.  Hubbert as Sidonie and Ihara as Kenzo both bring, in their unique ways, deeply moving portraits of the effects of loss on their inner selves and how they find their way and the courage to live fully again.

The minimal musical soundtrack enhances the poignancy of the story, and much of the cinematography has the feel of portraiture in its stillness, giving the viewer time to absorb the feel of environments such as gardens, the ocean, ancient buildings, vast but almost empty airport lounges and hotel foyers, and the solitude of hotel stays.

Slightly bittersweet, Sidonie in Japan is a gentle exploration of how the deep and mutual recognition of one another’s souls can open the path to healing for each, even from the greatest loss.

Screening at Palace cinemas.