Lost in Translation
In the early noughties, Lost in Translation (2003) became regular viewing on DVD during a traumatic time.
Director Sofia Coppola's (The Virgin Suicides) non-intrusive direction lends itself to the early 'cinéma vérité' of her famous father, Francis (The Godfather), and his former apprentice George Lucas (Star Wars).
Tokyo has never looked more arresting: whether the viewer is subjected to the neon-drenched kaleidoscopes of advertising, arcades or more traditional temples of Japan. The absence of subtitling enforces the theme of alienation and disenfranchisement in the land of the rising sun.
Air underscores the ambience, tempo and quiet melancholia.
Coppola artfully blends universal themes with personal introspection (her young marriage to fellow filmmaker Spike Jonze (Her)). Roxy Music's "More Than This" serves as a haunting lament.
Bill Murray (Ghostbusters) and Scarlett Johansson's (Ghost World) chemistry and relationship, which isn’t consummated, as they grapple with their estranged marriages, culminates in a deeply moving coda.
Johansson would go on to play Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, personally, this remains her standout role.