In Full Bloom is a beautifully crafted film that explores themes of honor, redemption, and the passing of time. Directed by Maegan Houang, this 2019 movie takes place in post-World War II Japan, where the main character, an aging samurai named Suenaga (played by Hiroyuki Watanabe), has spent most of his life training to follow in his father's footsteps.
As Suenaga approaches the end of his life, he sees his legacy slipping away as more and more young people turn away from traditional martial arts in favor of modern forms like boxing and wrestling. Struggling with his mortality and feeling obsolete, Suenaga wanders through the city streets and spends his days tending to his garden.
One day, Suenaga meets a young boxer named Danny (Tyler Wood). Danny is haunted by his past and is struggling to find his place in the world. As Suenaga and Danny begin to spend time together, Suenaga sees in Danny a chance to pass on his knowledge and leave a lasting legacy.
However, Danny is not interested in the ways of the samurai and is resistant to Suenaga's teachings at first. As the two men spend more time together, they slowly begin to bond over their shared love of combat and eventually form a deep connection.
The film's stunning cinematography captures the beauty of the natural world as well as the grittiness of the city streets. There are also breathtaking action scenes that showcase the skill of both Suenaga and Danny, as they spar in the dojo and fight off attackers in the streets.
One of the most striking aspects of In Full Bloom is its exploration of the cultural differences between Suenaga and Danny. While Suenaga is deeply steeped in traditional Japanese culture, Danny is a brash American who is more interested in self-promotion than honor. Their different approaches to life and combat create tension between them, but also provide an opportunity for growth and understanding.
The film also delves into themes of family and redemption, as Suenaga's relationship with his estranged son, Kazuo (Yusuke Ogasawara), comes to the forefront. Kazuo is wrestling with his own demons and has turned away from his father's legacy, but their eventual reconciliation brings a sense of closure to both men.
In Full Bloom is a poignant and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's a meditation on the passing of time, the importance of tradition, and the power of connection. The performances from the main cast are excellent, particularly Watanabe's understated portrayal of Suenaga and Wood's fiery portrayal of Danny.
Overall, In Full Bloom is a must-see for anyone who appreciates cinematic storytelling that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. It's a unique and memorable film that will leave a lasting impact on its viewers.
In Full Bloom is a 2021 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.
