If you’re unfamiliar with the work of filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, then you really must seek out his films. The writer-director is perhaps best known for his films such as “Nobody Knows,” “Like Father, Like Son,” and “After the Storm.” However, his most recent wprk, the incredible “Shoplifters,” won the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival and might be his best yet.
READ MORE: ‘Shoplifters’: Hirokazu Kore-eda Finds Empathy & Grace In Family Again [Cannes Review]
This is why we’re proud to present an exclusive clip from “Shoplifters,” as the film is scheduled to hit select theaters later this month. For those unaware, “Shoplifters” tells the story of a family of small-time thieves that come across a little girl during one of their shoplifting sessions. The family agrees to take the little girl in, even though the family struggles as it is. However, just as things are going well for the family and their latest addition, their lives get thrown into chaos after an unforeseen incident.
And in the clip from the film, you see just what makes “Shoplifters,” and Kore-eda himself, so incredible. The scene doesn’t rely on any special camera tricks or elaborate set design. Featuring one woman, played by Ando Sakura, being interviewed about the situation with the little girl, you can see the powerful acting that is on display in the film, as emotions take over. It’s sad, given the context of the film, but even still, Kore-eda is able to put beauty in every frame of the film, especially in moments like this.
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In addition to the coveted Best Picture equivalent at Cannes, “Shoplifters” was chosen to be the official submission from Japan for this year’s Academy Awards. The film stars Lily Franky, Ando Sakura, Matsuoka Mayu, Kiki Kilin, Jyo Kairi, and Sasaki Miyu.
“Shoplifters” will hit select theaters on November 23. Do yourself a favor and seek it out.
Here’s the synopsis, as well as the exclusive clip and official trailer:
After one of their shoplifting sessions, Osamu and his son come across a little girl in the freezing cold. At first reluctant to shelter the girl, Osamu’s wife agrees to take care of her after learning of the hardships she faces. Although the family is poor, barely making enough money to survive through petty crime, they seem to live happily together until an unforeseen incident reveals hidden secrets, testing the bonds that unite them…
Exclusive clip from the Palme d'Or-winning film from Hirokazu Kore-eda, "Shoplifters."
Posted by The Playlist on Monday, November 12, 2018