Bitters End, the Japanese film company behind the Oscar-winning "Drive My Car," has secured international distribution rights for director Sho Miyake's latest feature, "Two Seasons, Two Strangers." The film is set to debut at the upcoming Cannes Film Market. Currently in post-production, this adaptation of acclaimed manga artist Yoshiharu Tsuge's work is slated for a November release in Japan.
"Two Seasons, Two Strangers" stars Korean actress Shim Eun-kyung ("Miss Granny," "The Journalist") alongside veteran Japanese actor Shinichi Tsutsumi ("Always: Sunset on Third Street"). The story follows Li, a screenwriter played by Shim Eun-kyung, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and emotional reflection after a chance encounter with the enigmatic Benzo, portrayed by Shinichi Tsutsumi. Through her writing, Li delves into the profound emotional connections between people.
Adapted from two short manga stories by Yoshiharu Tsuge, director Sho Miyake admitted, "These works are captivating, sometimes even overwhelming. I feel like I'm creating something entirely new."
Known for his delicate and poetic visual style, Sho Miyake is no stranger to the European film scene, with recent films like "All the Long Nights," "Small, Slow but Steady," and "And Your Bird Can Sing" all selected for the Berlin Film Festival.
Miyake previously collaborated with Netflix on "Ju-On: Origins," a prequel series to the "Ju-On" franchise. This new film continues his exploration of inner emotions and everyday solitude, once again showcasing his unique interpretation of visual language through the lens of manga adaptation.
Bitters End is a veteran Japanese film company with a 30-year history, having distributed works by acclaimed directors such as Ryusuke Hamaguchi, Bong Joon-ho, Jia Zhangke, and the Dardenne brothers. They will also handle the domestic Japanese distribution for "Two Seasons, Two Strangers."
via： Variety