User reviews

Spirit World is a multi-layered film that, at its core, is about two very human impulses. One, the creative instinct that drives artists and two, the emotional need for familial ties. At the very beginning of the film, we are introduced to three characters who have lost touch with both impulses as defined. The singer-songwriter Claire (Deneuve), Yuzo (Sakai) - a former songwriter, now piano tuner - and his estranged son Hayato (Takenouchi), an anime director, whose best acclaimed work is now seemingly behind him.

For these three characters, it requires decisions and actions made in death and in the after- life, to find resolution for the unsettled issues in life. It is, of course, a very idealised perspective of that universal question - what happens after we die? Spirit World answers this question in a very realistic, matter-of-fact manner. Casting aside the fear of the unknown and making the choice to help the living, an unselfish quest that for our protagonists, results in the fulfilment of their own humble desires. This is the life-affirming message of Spirit World: that the creative impulse can bear fruit to heal familial ties, when it is exercised with selfless intent.

From a technical standpoint, Spirit World ticks all the boxes of audience engagement. The likeable performances draw you in, the beautiful Takasaki and Chiba landscapes (and seascapes) provide pure eye candy, and a tribute is paid to the musical artists of the 60s and 70s, a golden age of creativity that might never be witnessed again. A sweet and heartfelt filmic experience for everyone who has felt the pull of creativity and the love of family.