LINDA LINDA LINDA Review: A True Modern Masterpiece, Now In 4K
Linda Linda Linda opens in select theaters in 4K restoration beginning September 5 in select cities from GKids Films.
When their guitarist injures her hand shortly before their school’s planned Culture Day, Kyoko (Aki Maeda), Kei (Yuu Kashi), and Nozomi (Shiori Sekine) are having trouble finding a replacement vocal as Kei has shifted to the guitarist position. Opting to choose whoever walks by them next, they choose Son (Bae Doona) a Korean transfer student with a limited understanding of Japanese. Their song? “Linda Linda” by The Blue Hearts, a youth anthem that has spoken to Japanese teens and rebels for decades.
Re-released by GKIDS in 4K restoration, director Nobuhiro Yamashita helms this very entertaining and warm coming of age film that is perhaps one of the best modern Japanese films that has also seemingly been forgotten by film fans and longtime Asian Cinema enthusiasts alike. Low key in its approach, as well as disarmingly charming in spades, Linda Linda Linda tackles universal themes like friendship, alienation, first love, and more in what I’d argue is one of the best Japanese films period within the last 20 years, even among the more recognized Koreeda and Yamada works internationally.
Anchored by extremely compelling performances by our four female leads, the film plays out over the week of their high schools’ cultural festival; an American equivalent for teens might be Homecoming or the prom in films. This brings a lot of expectation for the characters; Kei’s desire to perform together, Kyoko’s secret affection for a classmate, Nozomi’s quiet camaraderie, and Son’s chance at making friends. While certain characters have more emphasis than others; Son and Kei especially, this group is the real heart of the film and the moments spent together practicing, gossiping, and forming bonds are something quite magical that just may have you looking back at days gone past, old friendships, and the carefree time of youth.
In the discussion of this film, you cannot omit the stellar and original score by former Smashing Pumpkins member James Iha; it’s a pitch perfect selection of melancholy, little joys, and introspection that serves just as well on a rainy night as it does within the film. Coupled with strong on screen performances by Yuko Yamazaki as well as the girls’ joy filled moment of truth on stage, the film is a strong example of the musical themed Japanese drama that was so big in the 2000s and stands beyond that short but personally well loved trend.
Ultimately, Linda Linda Linda is one of those pictures that I will always push to reach a new audience. With great performances, a warm and fun story, and some great musical moments, you truly cannot miss this film, a true modern masterpiece.
