Lost In Translation: A Review

In Sofia Coppola's second outing as a feature film director, Lost In Translation has her overseeing Scarlet Johansson and Bill Murray in a film which plays to both's strengths wonderfully. Murray plays Bob Harris, a former movie star who is in Tokyo to shoot a series of whiskey advertisements, while Johansson takes on the role of Charlotte, who has traveled to Tokyo with her husband John, a photographer who is on a work assignment in the city.

Murray turns in an understated performance, possibly the finest of his career, whether it be during the comedic moments such as his sheer bewilderment during the shooting of a whiskey commercial or when his character is falling for the charms of the genuine and giggly Charlotte.

Questions of fidelity are asked strongly throughout, as the disillusionment of both the main characters is portrayed expertly on screen. Charlotte is at a turning point in her life, having not long graduated, she has no idea what she wants to do or be and is questioning her marriage.

After exchanging glances in a lift, the two characters are united in a hotel bar and their friendship begins. The two fill different roles in each other's lives, Charlotte needs the attention that Bob provides, while Charlotte seemingly reminds Bob of how much he adores his wife and children. The title of the film hearkens to the obvious aspects of being in a foreign country, but also the stages in life that both characters have drifted into.

Weaved in and out of Bob and Charlotte's relationship are gorgeous shots of the city of Tokyo which do more to show the beauty of the place than any travel brochure ever could. This is an at times, mesmerizing movie which floats along at a dream-like pace and can truly call itself a modern day classic.