Futari (1991)

A Coming of Age Film or How to live with with a ghost sister

I actually found out about this film when I was looking at the screenwriter or director of Iguana no Musume — a lovely bizarre drama about a girl who is actually an iguana. I think in 1996 or 1995 they made a remake of this film. Realizing that the original version is actually by Ōbayashi and my love for coming of age films — I gave this one a try. And I have to say that I really enjoyed watching it. There is something really whimsical and eerie when Chizuko and her sister are in the same room.

Joe Hisaishi's music and especially the mesmerizing song Two of Us not only connects both sisters but becomes one of the most important things about Futari. I never tire of hearing this beautiful song (PLEASE LISTEN TO THIS MASTERPIECE! www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6Tm047Gv3M). I can see why Joe Hisaishi — known for his Ghibli Studio music — composed the music for Futari.

Mika is growing and changing a lot throughout this film. Even her ghost sister sees her in a different light. I don't know how it is possible to feel this awful sadness but to have all those heartwarming moments between loss and grief. It feels terrible but also relieving that Chizuko is next to Mika's side. Btw. shout out to Mika's best friend for being so damn supportive and honest. Oh, and I absolutely adore Mika's style. When she is sitting next to all her plants and the artsy writer's mess, I just really want to sit there and be her friend!

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