After Life (1998)

Director/Writer: Hirokazu Kore-eda

Stars: Arata Iura, Erika Oda, Susumu Terajima, Takashi Naito, Kyoko Kagawa, Kei Tani, Taketoshi Naito

The recently deceased are transported to a way station en route to the afterlife, at which they are required to select a single memory in which they will exist for eternity.

 

This is a terrific, thought-provoking concept that is very well executed. 

Director Hirokazu Kore-eda downplays the metaphysical angle by placing his characters in a very pragmatic, down-to-earth environment--an old building, harried case workers on a tight schedule, and a noticeable and commendable lack of ethereal visual or sound effects.

 

We are treated to many interesting interviews with clients who are trying to select a memory.

 

Some of these interviews are genuine and unscripted, conducted with non-actors. The most touching moments come as we get to know the case workers better and learn about their inner lives and the reasons that they have been selected to work in this place rather than moving on to the next.

Spoiler alert!!! The end of the movie!!