Oh Lucy!

Oh Lucy! is an engrossing 2017 film that blends elements of drama and comedy to explore themes of self-discovery, identity, and the complex nature of relationships. Directed by Atsuko Hirayanagi, the film offers viewers a refreshing cultural exchange between the East and West through a lens that is both humorous and poignant. Its narrative revolves around the main character, Setsuko Kawashima, played brilliantly by Shinobu Terajima, traipsing between Tokyo and California in the pursuit of love.

The plot invites viewers into the tedious life of Setsuko, a middle-aged office lady in Tokyo, who is deeply unhappy and unsatisfied with her life. Her monotonous existence takes a dramatic shift when her niece, Mika (Miyu Yagyu), presents her with an unconventional English class that requires Setsuko to don a blonde wig and take on an American alter ego, "Lucy." This eccentric class is taught by the charming John (Josh Hartnett), who employs unorthodox methods to teach English, including doling out Western names and bear hugs to his students.

The film finds its momentum when John suddenly disappears, only for Setsuko to learn that he has eloped with her niece, Mika, to America. Spurred by a cocktail of emotions that includes an inexplicable infatuation with John and concern over Mika, Setsuko decides to chase them to America, taking along her estranged sister, Ayako (Kaho Minami), Mika’s mother.

Oh Lucy! effectively captures the contrast between the bustling streets of Tokyo and the sun-drenched expanse of Southern California, visually emphasizing the metaphorical journey Setsuko embarks upon. From navigating the alien terrains of a foreign land to stumbling through language and cultural barriers, Setsuko's journey is as much an external voyage as it is an inward exploration of her personality.

Setsuko grows increasingly attached to the persona of "Lucy," and viewers are led through a fascinating narrative that intertwines the excitement of discovery, the despair of loneliness, and Setsuko’s desperate endeavors to break free from her old life. Similarly, John's character is more than meets the eye, and his charisma has an underbelly of mystery and ambiguity, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline.

Shinobu Terajima delivers a stellar performance, effectively bringing to life Setsuko's frustrations, hopes, and complexities. Her portrayal is deeply resonant, offering audiences a character who is not just relatable, but one that inspires empathy and understanding. Josh Hartnett, known for his Hollywood charming roles, deviates from the usual to present a layered character that leaves a lasting impact. The dynamic between the two leads, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western cultures, is a high point of the film.

In her feature-length directorial debut, Atsuko Hirayanagi reveals a remarkable proficiency in storytelling. Oh Lucy! gets its depth from the director’s knack for skillfully peeling back the layers of her characters while striking a balance between humor and pathos. Hirayanagi elevates what could have been a traditional fish-out-water narrative into something richer – an exploration of human relationships, cultural dislocation, and personal transformation.

Hirayanagi's direction, combined with creative cinematography, gives the film a unique charm, employing a subtle layer of social commentary underlying its storyline. The screenplay, written by Boris Frumin and Hirayanagi, complements the visuals, presenting pivotal plot points with witty dialogue and emotional depth.

Oh Lucy! is a multicultural cinematic experience that navigates cross-cultural contexts with humor, heart, and a profound sense of humanity. It is finely balanced between the humor that emerges from Setsuko’s escapades and the poignant reflections on loneliness, identity, and the struggles of letting go of the past.

At its heart, Oh Lucy! is more than just an entertaining film. It is a movie that explores universal human themes through a storyline that transcends geographical boundaries, making it both a rewarding and thought-provoking watch.