Chris J
MOVIE REVIEW
Tokyo Pop
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 1988, 2023 Kino 4K
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Fran Rubel Kuzui
Writer(s): Lynn Grossman, Fran Rubel Kuzui
Cast: Carrie Hamilton, Diamond Yukai, Taiji Tonoyama, Tetsurô Tanba, Masumi Harukawa
Language: English and Japanese with English subtitles
Where To Watch: theatrical release of the new 4K restoration opens August 4, 2023, at BAM Rose Cinemas in Brooklyn and August 11 at American Cinematheque in Los Angeles before expanding to select cities.
RAVING REVIEW: Fran Rubel is a creative powerhouse who has silently shaped the celluloid landscape while staying out of the spotlight. Her resume includes influential works such as the film (of the same name) that gave birth to the television phenomenon, BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, and the overlooked but remarkable TOKYO POP.
Let's roll the camera back to the neon hues of the '80s and focus our lens on TOKYO POP. The narrative focuses on the story of a hopeful musician (an unforgettable performance by Carrie Hamilton) who swaps the familiarity of her home for the uncharted territory of Japan. This mirrors Rubel's off-screen narrative; after graduating from NYU, she joined Haruki Kadokawa's company as a script supervisor.
While TOKYO POP might have flown under the radar compared to the critically acclaimed LOST IN TRANSLATION, many argue that the former more authentically captures the soul of Tokyo. This turning point also marked a shift for Rubel, as she and assistant director Kaz Kuzui formed a potent professional partnership that bloomed into marriage. Their collaboration gave birth to Kuzui Enterprises, a bridge connecting the American and Japanese entertainment worlds. In the electrifying '80s, Kuzui Enterprises was a beacon, illuminating the path for modern Japanese cinema to reach American shores and vice versa. Their first project, TOKYO POP, was a testament to Rubel's journey and an homage to her new identity as Fran Rubel Kuzui.
We enter the world of TOKYO POP through Wendy Reed, brought vividly to life by Carrie Hamilton. A singer in her boyfriend's band back in New York City, Wendy's performances led to her getting the boot and a relationship breakup, which set the stage for her voyage to Japan, prompted by a friend's postcard. Despite landing in Japan to find her friend absent, Wendy exhibits admirable tenacity in navigating the city's frenetic rhythm.
Finding the Japanese music scene irresistible and seeing a chance for a fresh start, Wendy leaves behind her life of thankless jobs and unfulfilling relationships. Despite feeling like a fish out of water in Tokyo, she crosses paths with Hiro (Diamond Yukai,) a local musician who dreams big. They bond over their shared passion for music, but cultural differences and personal aspirations cast long shadows over their relationship.
The fusion of Wendy's American charm with Hiro's band offers them a unique selling point, and under their savvy record producer Dota (Tetsurô Tanba,) their popularity soars. Yet, this fame comes with its challenges as the duo grapples with maintaining their elevated status in the whirlwind of pop culture.
While TOKYO POP may appear straightforward at first glance, it is an irresistible cocktail of '80s nostalgia, alluring performances, and aesthetically pleasing visuals (especially in this gorgeous 4K restoration.) It uniquely depicts Tokyo beyond tourist hotspots, opening a world of karaoke bars and late-night ramen joints.
TOKYO POP doesn't just skim the surface of its characters but dives deep into their narratives. Wendy's journey from New York to the musical avenues of Tokyo forms the story's core. Hiro, juggling his daily grind with his nighttime music pursuits, embodies the trials of the aspirational dreamer.
In their unexpected union, Wendy's exotic appeal and Hiro's local charm blend to produce a sound that weaves Eastern and Western threads into a captivating melody, hitting the right notes with a global audience. Despite the passage of time, TOKYO POP continues to capture viewers' hearts, serving as a lasting tribute to Fran Rubel's profound legacy in the annals of cinema. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
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As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.
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Rated 3.5/5 Stars •
Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars
08/01/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Love the 80's fashion
Rated 1/5 Stars •
Rated 1 out of 5 stars
02/04/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Heartfelt and sadly underrated movie. Will a DVD ever be released?
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
02/23/23
Full Review
Audience Member
I first saw this on TV back in the early '90's and fell in love with it, Japanese culture and it's female lead, the late Carrie Hamilton. Actually she is my main reason for liking this film, but the male lead (Masumi Harukawa) is also very likeable. There are some good songs and some very cheesy songs too. (I own the soundtrack!) This has never had a DVD release which is a real disappointment, and judging by the few fans it has on here most people are unaware of it's existence.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
02/22/23
Full Review
Audience Member
pretty much unknown and forgotten, unlike the overrated Lost in Translation (the main guy in Tokyo Pop is also in Translation as the wacked out commercial director) , but even as a goofy comedy I think it has a much better insight into life in Tokyo than Lost in Translation
Rated 3.5/5 Stars •
Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars
02/14/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Cameo by X-Japan o_O!
Rated 2.5/5 Stars •
Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars
02/08/23
Full Review
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