The film "Distant View of Light," directed by Kei Ishikawa and starring Hirose Suzu, is set to be released on September 5, 2025. This adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's debut novel marks a significant milestone for the cast, particularly for Yoshida Yo, who is taking on the challenge of acting almost entirely in English for the first time.
"Distant View of Light" will be showcased in the "Un Certain Regard" section of the 78th Cannes International Film Festival, which runs from May 13 to May 24, 2025. The film is a co-production involving Japan, England, and Poland, and Ishikawa, who previously studied film at the Polish National Film School, considers this project a return to his roots.
The story, originally penned by Ishiguro, unfolds across two significant eras: post-war Nagasaki in the 1950s and England in the 1980s. In the film, Hirose Suzu plays the lead character, Keiko, who is depicted as navigating her family’s complex history while pursuing her aspirations of becoming a writer. The narrative intertwines her life with that of her mother, portrayed by Yoshida Yo, who reflects on her past experiences during the atomic bombings in Nagasaki and her subsequent move to England.
Yoshida Yo's involvement in this film is particularly noteworthy as she has dedicated herself to mastering a British accent for her role. Prior to filming, she undertook a short-term study program in England, where she honed her English skills through a homestay. "The English lines with a British accent were challenging because it’s not my native language," Yoshida expressed. "However, I felt that the constraints and the time spent facing the language became Keiko's flesh and blood. It was a rare experience for me."
Kei Ishikawa, the director, praised Yoshida's commitment to the role, stating, "She arrived in England earlier than anyone else to master the British accent. Her performance as Keiko, who immigrated to England 30 years ago, was outstanding, and the expressions of surprise and respect from the British staff during our readings spoke volumes about her convincing portrayal."
In addition to Yoshida and Hirose, the film features Kohei Matsushita as Keiko's husband, Jiro, and Tomokazu Mitsuura as Ogata, the principal of the school where Keiko once worked. The cast also includes Rie Shibata, Daichi Watanabe, and child actress Aiko Kamila, who plays Keiko's daughter. The film's trailer hints at the complex themes of memory and identity that are central to its narrative, with the tagline "The Lies I Told" capturing the essence of the unfolding mystery.
As the trailer reveals scenes from both the 1950s and 1980s, it raises questions about the characters' pasts and the secrets they hold. In one poignant moment, Keiko's daughter questions her mother about their move to England, prompting a response that hints at deeper truths and potential deceptions. The interplay between mother and daughter encapsulates the film's exploration of familial bonds and the weight of history.
"I am truly honored and excited to be part of this project, especially with the news of its selection for Cannes," Yoshida shared. "It’s exhilarating to imagine this film, directed by the esteemed Kei Ishikawa, being shown in theaters worldwide."
The anticipation surrounding the film is palpable, not only for its compelling storyline but also for the performances of its talented cast. Ishikawa’s prior work, including the award-winning film "A Man," has set high expectations for this new venture. The film's production team has expressed their hopes that the film will resonate with audiences both in Japan and internationally.
As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build for "Distant View of Light," which promises to be a captivating exploration of memory, identity, and the intricate tapestry of human relationships. With its rich narrative and a blend of cultural backgrounds, the film aims to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
In conclusion, "Distant View of Light" stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, bridging the past and present through the lens of personal and collective memory. As it prepares to debut at Cannes, it is poised to not only showcase the talents of its cast but also to invite audiences into a world of reflection and discovery.
