Birds Without Names

彼女がその名を知らない鳥たち

Directed by: Kazuya Shiraishi
2017 / 123 minutes / Under 15s must be accompanied by an adult

There are no limits in the pursuit of love

It’s a relationship as dysfunctional as they come. Towako is a despicable woman—living with a man 15 years her senior, she spends all his meagre earnings while simultaneously treating him like a worthless slug. Jinji is a sprightly and dedicated man. Infatuated with Towako since first laying eyes on her, he goes to great lengths to ensure her happiness, neither expecting nor receiving gratitude in return.

Despite Jinji’s absolute devotion, Towako has no feelings for him. She constantly reminisces about her ex-boyfriend, Shunichi, even sleeping with other men who evoke her memories of him.

On a whim one day, she calls his number once again only to be given the grim news that he’s been missing for five years. Wary of his tendency to stalk her during her frequent trysts, Towako suspects Jinji may know more than he lets on about Shunichi’s mysterious disappearance.

Kayuza Shiraishi (Twisted Justice) skilfully brings out the intrigue and emotion in award-winning writer Mahokaru Numata’s mystery novel. Sublime performances from leads Yu Aoi (Japanese Girls Never Die, What a Wonderful Family!) and Sadao Abe (Fruits of Faith) make this visceral tale of lust, devotion and redemption one you won’t want to miss.