In November 15, 2001, in a field outside Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, a bow hunter discovers a lifeless body of a Japanese woman named, Takako Konishi. Her death became an urban legend due to a language barrier between a local police officer who was trying to help her during her traveling. What’s the myth? Takako was under the impression the money buried by Steve Buscemi in “Fargo” really happened. Unaware the film itself is fictional, she goes on a quest to search for it. What really happened to Takako? She was depressed office worker dealing with personal issues. She wrote a note she traveled to America to freeze to death.
Thirteen Years Later, the urban legend surrounding Takako’s quest to search for money became a film called, Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter” starring Rinko Kikuchi. Released in 2014, (same year Edge of Tomorrow came out) it received praise from critics. Rinko was nominated for “Best Actress” at the 30th Independent Spirit Awards. Anyway, I have one reason why I wanna review this under the radar indie film, Rinko’s recent film, “Ha-Chan, Shake Your Booty” is out in theaters. Before I get a chance to see it, I wanna share my opinion on Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter.”
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this underrated gem.
Happy & Sad Qualities
Happy: Rinko Kikuchi did an amazing job for her performance. In addition to carrying the film, Rinko also served as an executive producer along with Alexander Payne. As you may know, he directed well-known films, “About Schmidt,” “Sideways” & “The Holdovers.”
David Zeller (Damsel, Alpha Gang) did a decent job directing. He also co-wrote the script with his brother, Nathan.
Experimental band, The Octopus Garden orchestrated the soundtrack. They’re from Texas.
Cinematography’s shot in good condition.
Prior to leaving Tokyo, we get to know Kumiko’s background.
Primary Themes are Loneliness, Obsession, Delusion & Destiny. Each one’s handled maturely.
Random Thoughts
- I’m surprised this film’s loosely based on a real life person who tried to find buried briefcase full of cash.
- I do in fact have a crush on Rinko Kikuchi. First time I saw her was “Pacific Rim.” Then, I saw her Oscar nominated performance in “Babel.”
- It would be nice if this film’s part of The Criterion Collection. I prefer Kumiko over Richard Linklater’s “Boyhood.” Sorry folks. The latter was boring as heck.
Sad: The First Half drags until 43 minutes in we finally go on an adventure. I’m willing to accept Interstellar’s slow pace allowing movie goers to get to know Cooper’s background, his family, dust storms depleting crops and a “ghost” knocking off books in Cooper’s bookshelf. Kumiko’s story however, felt stiff. We get it, Kumiko’s a lonely girl with an unsatisfying job and having phone calls with her mother. In other words, get to the point.
The Final Verdict: A-
Even though the first 43 minutes is a slow burn, I really enjoyed Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter. A unique underrated drama. I’ll watch anything with Rinko Kikuchi. A darn shame she didn’t get an Oscar nomination. If you’re looking for something different to watch, check this one out. You won’t regret it.
