‘Golden Slumber’ Stars at Reel Asian Film Festival

A scene from 'Golden Slumber' Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival

The Toronto International Reel Asian International Film festival highlighted many films from genres and backgrounds, yet definitely felt like a “Canadian” film festival.

Running from Nov. 9-15, the festival’s opening night debut was well attended at the Bloor Cinema in Downtown Toronto.

Although much smaller and less renowned than TIFF, the event was well put together by the noticeably young staff, whose hearts seemed fully dedicated to the festival’s mission of bringing Asian cultures together to display their inner worlds and stories through film, media presentations, and interactive art displays.

On Nov. 14, the Royal Theatre showcased the centerpiece of the festival—Golden Slumber by director Yoshihiro Nakamura, who won last year’s Audience Award for his 2009 production Fish Story.

The MC explained that the film has its roots in a novel by Kotora Isaka and that its title is based on the Beatles’ hit by the same name, which becomes a theme throughout the film. This is an action thriller whose pace keeps you guessing what will happen next, à la The Fugitive. But as we follow Aoyogi through his trials as the framed assassin of the Japanese president, there reveals a much more human story that stands out well past the political intrigue and fascinating plotlines.

Full of unique Japanese characteristics such as bizarre humour and characters, Golden Slumber is both fun and exciting yet at the same time quite deep. The characters are not at all superficial or scripted like in many action films. It is a touching story of how honesty, trust in people’s good nature, and being a good person can pull one through the most harrowing of circumstances.

It is at times a very touching film and enjoyable right to the end. Funny, creative, and intriguing, Golden Slumber will not put you to sleep by any means.

[etRating value=“ 4”]