August at Akiko's is a 2018 independent film directed by Christopher Makoto Yogi. The film tells the story of Alex (played by Alex Zhang Hungtai), a musician who returns to his hometown in Hawaii to visit his estranged mother. While there, he meets Akiko (Akiko Masuda), an older woman who runs a bed and breakfast. The film follows the slowly evolving relationship between Alex and Akiko as they navigate their shared love of music and their complicated pasts.
The film is shot in a slow-paced, dreamlike style, with beautiful cinematography that captures the lush, natural beauty of Hawaii. The music in the film is also a standout, with Alex's saxophone providing a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to the quiet moments between him and Akiko. The film explores themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of relationships, with a gentle touch that never feels heavy-handed.
Alex is an interesting and complex character. He is quiet and introspective, with a deep sadness that he carries with him throughout the film. He is also a talented musician, and his saxophone playing is a way for him to express himself when words fail. Alex is resistant to connect with others, but the friendship he develops with Akiko slowly draws him out of his shell. As the two spend more time together, they begin to open up to each other, sharing stories of their pasts and the experiences that have shaped them into who they are today.
Akiko is a vibrant and charismatic character. She is warm and open, with a lively energy that draws people to her. She has a passion for music, and the bed and breakfast she runs is a retreat for musicians and artists from around the world. Akiko is also dealing with her own issues, including a strained relationship with her daughter, but she remains optimistic and resilient in the face of adversity. She is a true optimist, always looking for the good in people and situations.
As Alex and Akiko grow closer, they begin to confront the things that have been holding them back. Alex must face the pain and resentment he feels towards his mother, while Akiko must confront the fact that her daughter may never truly understand her. The two characters bring out the best in each other, and their friendship becomes a source of comfort and support as they navigate their respective challenges.
Overall, August at Akiko's is a beautiful and touching film that explores the complexities of relationships and the power of music to heal and connect people. The film is slow-paced but never dull, with beautiful scenery, excellent performances, and a haunting soundtrack. It is a must-see for anyone who appreciates quiet, introspective films that tackle big themes in a relatable way.
August at Akiko's is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.
