Cottontail

Following the death of his wife Akiko, devastated Kenzaburo is presented with a letter from her requesting that her ashes be scattered at Lake Windermere in England, a place that held precious memories from her childhood. Kenzaburo reluctantly agrees that his estranged son Toshi may accompany him to the other side of the world to fulfil Akiko’s final wish.

Director Patrick Dickinson draws influence from the gentle dramas of Hirokazu Koreeda for this, his debut feature about family and reconciliation. This connection is strengthened with the central, moving performance from Lily Franky, who featured in Koreeda’s own Shoplifters, which lends an additional familiarity for audiences. The result is a sensitive and understated film that provides a warm, rewarding viewing experience.