This is perhaps the best film of 2003.

Rating: 10/10 (23 July 2004)

This is perhaps the best film of 2003. Even as an 'indie' film, or as a 'popular' film, you can't deny the unbelievably good job Sofia Coppola did in this film. Not only did she give Bill Murray his best starring role since Groundhog Day, she also made note to include the remarkably understated Giovanni Ribisi and 'newcomer' Scarlett Johansson [you can also spot her in Ghost World, among some other films before this one. She is drop-dead gorgeous because she pulls off that natural look so perfectly.] Anyways, if there is any reason you haven't seen this film, go buy it. The cinematography could rival that of Lord of the Rings, except it's modern day Japan. The scenes with the monks and the marriage ceremony will leave you in awe, if you understand the profundity of it.
In a time where movies are lacking any real plot [Chronicles of Riddick? Walking Tall? The final Matrix film?], it's nice to see a classic angle get reworked so wonderfully. The interactions between Murray and Johansson are fantastic, and truly prove why they are the best in the biz. Go see this film, now!