Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✩✩(3/5)
"Small, Slow but Steady" (original title: Keiko, me wo sumasete) takes viewers on a profound and captivating journey of perseverance against the backdrop of a global pandemic. The film centers around Keiko Ogasawara (Yukino Kishii), a hearing-impaired woman with a relentless ambition to become a professional boxer. However, her dreams are threatened as her boxing club faces closure and her mentor, Mr. Sasaki (Tomokazu Miura), battles declining health.
Director Sho Miyake skillfully utilizes the pandemic as a narrative device, allowing the story to delve into the depths of Keiko's internal struggles. The film avoids conventional sports movie tropes, opting for a more introspective exploration of the human spirit. Instead of grand victories and rousing speeches, Keiko's path is marked by small victories and personal growth.
Yukino Kishii delivers a commendable performance as Keiko, capturing the character's determination and inner conflicts with grace. Her portrayal effectively conveys the emotional weight of Keiko's journey, adding depth to the film. Tomokazu Miura shines as Mr. Sasaki, portraying the aging mentor with a nuanced blend of vulnerability and wisdom. The chemistry between Kishii and Miura creates a touching father-daughter dynamic that adds an additional layer of warmth to the narrative.
Sho Miyake's direction is deliberate and measured, mirroring the film's title. The pacing of the story is intentionally slow, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in Keiko's world and experience the quiet strength that fuels her resilience. Miyake's attention to detail and focus on the characters' internal struggles contribute to the film's emotional impact. However, at times, the deliberate pace may test the patience of some viewers.
The cinematography in "Small, Slow but Steady" effectively captures the grittiness of the boxing world and the intimate moments of self-reflection. The use of close-ups and subtle camera movements adds intimacy and enhances the emotional connection with the characters. The visual composition beautifully reflects the film's themes of determination and inner growth.
The editing in the film maintains a steady rhythm, mirroring the deliberate pace of the narrative. Transitions between scenes are seamless, and the film effectively balances quiet moments of introspection with the intensity of the boxing sequences. However, there are instances where the pacing feels uneven, resulting in occasional lulls in the storytelling.
The sound design in "Small, Slow but Steady" is understated but impactful. The absence of sound during Keiko's boxing matches, highlighting her hearing impairment, adds a layer of authenticity and immersion. The music, composed by a talented team, complements the emotional tone of the film, enhancing key moments and capturing the internal struggles of the characters.
The writing in the film is introspective and poignant, allowing the characters' actions and emotions to speak volumes. While there are moments of genuine depth and reflection, the overall script could have benefited from further exploration and development of certain narrative threads. The dialogue, though minimalistic, effectively conveys the unspoken emotions and struggles of the characters.
Overall: "Small, Slow but Steady" offers a thought-provoking and heartfelt exploration of perseverance and personal growth. With its deliberate pacing, profound performances, and introspective storytelling, the film manages to deliver a powerful message about the resilience of the human spirit. While some pacing issues and underdeveloped narrative elements prevent it from reaching its full potential, "Small, Slow but Steady" is a worthy watch for those seeking a contemplative sports drama that goes beyond traditional clichés.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✩✩(3/5)