Kaede (2025)

A nuanced and emotional film that touches upon nuance, taboo, coping with loss and more.

While watching this in the cinema, was in tears at more than one stage of the film, so bear that in mind if you’re debating watching it.

I did not expect the film to start where it does - before the accident. However, it does, and it is meaningful in its choice to do so. There are many, many small details to be noticed that all point towards things that are never spoken but add a lot of deeper meaning to the film, right from its opening. Some of these things would only be noticed by people who pay attention to these types of detail, but it adds nice layering to the experience.

Having not yet rewatched, I am sure there are some more details that I didn’t notice in the cinema, and it really helps tie together the story.

So, what exactly is the story? Well, reading the synopsis is all you need to know going in, it is a story of love, identity, and trauma. The acting was moving, and the complexities beneath the surface make for a more interesting story than the premise might originally suggest. As I recall, the music really helped support the acting in the more emotional moments. This film also stays away from categorising anything as black or white, and leaves viewers with some interesting points to ponder.

Well-worth the watch if this sounds interesting to you, although perhaps be ready for some emotional moments and if needed, save it for a time you feel ready for them.

A month late to actually writing this review, so while Kaede isn’t quite as fresh in my mind, it has had time to marinate in my thoughts and should be a bit more free of any recency bias.

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