In Ryusuke Hamaguchi’s impressive filmography, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) stands out as a stunning anthology of stories that delves into the intricacies of human connection and desire. While it may not have received the same level of accolades as Hamaguchi’s Academy Award-winning Drive My Car (2021), released in the same year, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) is no less a masterpiece.
In one of Hamaguchi's more experimental works, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021), three independent short films form a compelling triptych, each surpassing the last in emotional resonance. The initial installment, Magic (or Something Less Assuring), explores a love triangle involving model Meiko, her close friend, and her ex-boyfriend, whose complex connections with both women drive the narrative. While the story's predictability left me slightly underwhelmed, it effectively sets the stage for the remainder of the film.
One aspect that particularly resonated with me in Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) was when Meiko's friend uttered the phrase, "No dirty talk, no physical touching. But we caressed each other through our conversation." This line encapsulates director Ryusuke Hamaguchi's unique approach to exploring human desire in the film. Rather than relying solely on physical intimacy to create tension, Hamaguchi emphasizes poignant dialogue that delves into the innate need for mutual understanding and empathy. Throughout the various stories in the film, the most compelling scenes are not those centered on physical intimacy, but rather those that utilize dialogue to express this profound human desire.
In the second story, titled "Door Wide Open," a married mother named Nao finds herself caught in a web of manipulation. Her friend-with-benefits convinces her to plot a sting operation, a honeytrap, as a form of revenge against their professor. But as Nao embarks on this plan, an unexpected connection forms between her and the professor, leading to a heartfelt exchange about self-worth and their shared life challenges.
Finally, Once Again examines the journey of Natsuko and Aya, two strangers who initially mistake each other for former high school classmates. Through their unexpected encounter, they help one another confront and heal from unresolved emotions and regrets, leading to a transformative experience for both characters.
Throughout the film, a recurring theme becomes apparent: the intertwining of fate and personal choice. Though the three stories unfold separately, they all explore the delicate balance between destiny and autonomy. The film immerses viewers in the intimate lives of the characters, creating a sense of isolation from the outside world. As the film concludes, however, it brings a heightened awareness of the myriad possibilities that shape our existence.
In contrast to formulaic feel-good movies, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) stands out for its compassionate and compelling portrayal of flawed characters. Rather than relying on admirable qualities to elicit empathy, the film authentically explores the complexities of human existence. Through its characters' unresolved feelings and mistakes, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own imperfections and find common ground. Hamaguchi's nuanced depiction of human nature challenges the notion that admirable qualities are necessary to evoke empathy, showcasing that it is the raw and relatable experiences of being human that truly connect us.
Additionally, Hamaguchi choreographs these stories with restraint, intentionally omitting superfluous characters, plot elements, and elaborate cinematography. While some might criticize his minimalist filmmaking style, I believe this understated approach is well-suited to the film's narrative. With the absence of all these distractions, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) maintains a light and straightforward sentiment despite its deep themes, creating a welcome equilibrium.
As Hamaguchi once observed, “To some extent, all films are fiction and documentary at the same time.” Likewise, Wheel of Fortune and Fantasy (2021) operates as a fictional documentary that not only entrances the viewer but also leaves an enduring imprint on their soul. It is a film that deserves to be savoured, contemplated, and revisited, as it offers a rare and profound exploration of the human experience, leaving a lingering impression and filling viewers with a sense of fulfillment they never knew they needed.
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