Smile

About This Movie

So, Smile from 2005 presents this intriguing blend of yakuza drama and manzai comedy, which is quite a rarity. Joji, a former yakuza, finds himself in this unexpected realm of humor when he teams up with Midori, an idol who hides her pain behind a stoic facade. The film captures a unique atmosphere—this juxtaposition of dark undertones with comedic aspirations creates a bit of tension. You can feel the emotional isolation that Midori experiences, and Joji's efforts to coax laughter out of her are both touching and a bit unsettling. The pacing is deliberate, allowing you to soak in the characters’ struggles without feeling rushed, making it memorable in its own way.

This film has seen a varied release history, with limited editions being quite scarce, which adds to its allure for collectors. The original DVD and any potential Blu-ray releases are harder to come by, making it a noteworthy piece for those who appreciate rare cinematic gems. Interest seems to be growing, particularly among fans of Japanese cinema that straddle unconventional genres.