«Tokyo Saba Girl Who Loops Through Time» by Fumito Fushi

In “Tokyo Saba – Girl Who Loops Through Time,” director Fumito Fushi gives us an intricate and emotional journey that intertwines love, loss, and the surreal nature of time.

The protagonist, Salmon, finds herself trapped in a mundane routine after returning to Tokyo from the United States, only to be thrust into a series of perplexing time loops. Her ever-increasing distance from Shijimi, her girlfriend, and her encounters with Shijimi’s enigmatic brother, Kai, form the emotional core of the story.

The film’s aesthetic is a mix of the vibrant energy of modern Tokyo and haunting surreality. The time loops in which the protagonist loses herself serve as a metaphor for Salmon’s inner turmoil and inability to move forward and symbolize Salmon’s struggle with her unresolved feelings and the repetitive nature of her unfulfilled love. Each loop is meticulously crafted, with subtle variations that keep the audience engaged and questioning the nature of reality.

The cast delivers powerful performances, particularly Yamashita Rita as Salmon, whose portrayal of confusion, heartbreak, and determination is both understandable and convincing. Kai, as Shijimi’s brother, (Hirahara Daichi) adds a mysterious and sometimes disturbing presence, further deepening the plot’s intrigue.

The use of color and lighting to differentiate the loops adds a level of visual storytelling that complements the complexity of the narrative.

Born in Osaka, Japan, and having honed his craft by studying in the United States and under the tutelage of established directors in Tokyo, Fumito Fushi brings a rich, multicultural perspective to this film. His experience as an independent screenwriter, actor, and director is evident in the film’s nuanced characters and intricate plot.

“Tokyo Saba Girl Who Loops Through Time” is a hypnotic exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a fantastical narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It’s a testament to Fumito Fushi’s skill and vision, making him a director to watch.