“Society today is extremely cruel to people who step off the path. But even those of us who stay on the path aren’t happy. So we’re unforgiving.”

How does one find their way back into society when society is doing everything to keep you out of it? What I loved about this movie is the fact that it doesn't just focus on one side. It depicts social issues, such as inequalities, prejudice and how unforgiving society can be. But it also deals with how our protagonist became the person he is now and how your life choices can define who you are.
Mikami is impulsive, easily angered and impatient. He wears his heart on his sleeve, longs to find a place in life and just wants to feel appreciated. I loved him the moment I saw the sadness in his eyes. Mikami might not be in prison anymore, but it would be foolish to call him free.

Directed with emotional depth and empathy, well-acted by the whole cast and refined with a beautiful soundtrack. For some people it might feel slow or even incoherent at times. But for me it was all about those little moments and Yakusho Koji giving the performance of his life.