WIFE OF A SPY – ★★★

A Japanese drama set during World War II, and about the wife of a Japanese business man who becomes involved in secrets when they are disclosed to him on a trip to China. He feels like he needs to do something about it, despite the consequences, given Japan’s allies in the war. It was nicely made overall, perhaps a little bit slow. The set design was nicely done, despite the film seeming low budget. It was originally made as a TV movie for Japan, so that might explain it. Perhaps some of it was lost in translation, but it seemed to meander a little and I was uncertain of the reason behind the ending being wrapped up the way it was after the slow start.

THE NOWHERE INN – ★★★☆

This mockumentary starts Carrie Brownstein (Portlandia tv show, or Sleater Kenny, depending on your demographic) and St Vincent. It’s fictional, but crosses with live performances by St Vincent, and they play themselves in the film. I was surprised that I liked this as much as I did, because I do have a bit of a like/dislike relationship with St Vincent. I loved her ‘mixtape’ radio show on Beats One back in the day. I didn’t mind some of her songs. But, I also found her live show when I went to be self-indulgent. Anyway, if you don’t mind a bit of tangential story with several amusing quips along the way, it’s worth checking out.

CHEF ANTONIO’S RECIPES FOR REVOLUTION – ★★★★

An excellent finish to MIFF for this year. This documentary is about an Italian Chef who hires people with disability (specifically those living with Down syndrome) in his restaurant and hotel. The general joy and patience he shows in helping others was inspiring to me. In the doco we see several of his staff and learn more about their lives. In addition it appears that his idea is expanding with several hotels in the chain opening up. One day when travel permits, I look forward to trying the one in the Blue Mountains, NSW.