Earthquake Bird

"Earthquake Bird" is a psychological thriller directed by Wash Westmoreland, based on the novel of the same name by Susanna Jones. It stars Alicia Vikander as Lucy Fly, a lonely expat living in Tokyo who becomes the primary suspect in a murder investigation. Kiki Sukezane plays the role of Lily Bridges, a newly arrived acquaintance of Lucy's who becomes embroiled in the mystery, while Kenichi Masuda appears as an inspector in charge of the case.

The movie is set in the late 1980s, and begins with Lucy being interviewed by the police in relation to the disappearance of Lily. As she is questioned, we see flashbacks to Lucy's life in Tokyo: her job as a translator, her daily routines, and her budding relationship with a handsome Japanese photographer named Teiji (played by Naoki Kobayashi). However, the arrival of Lily disrupts Lucy's routine and awakens long-buried feelings of jealousy and insecurity.

As the story unfolds, we learn more about Lucy's past: her traumatic childhood in England, her previous relationships, and her struggles with mental health. We see how her relationship with Teiji develops, and how Lily becomes a rival for his affections. Meanwhile, the police investigation into Lily's disappearance intensifies, and Lucy finds herself increasingly isolated and paranoid.

The film is a slow burn, building tension with each passing moment. The cinematography is moody and atmospheric, with the Tokyo backdrop adding to the sense of dislocation and unease. Vikander delivers a haunting performance as Lucy, capturing her vulnerability and inner turmoil. Sukezane is equally compelling as Lily, conveying a sense of mystery and danger.

One of the film's strengths is its exploration of cultural differences and the difficulties of communication across language barriers. As a foreigner in Japan, Lucy struggles to express herself and understand the motives of those around her. The film touches on themes of loneliness, identity, and the search for connection in a world that can be cold and unforgiving.

Overall, "Earthquake Bird" is a haunting and thought-provoking film that lingers in the mind long after viewing. It's not a typical thriller, but rather a slow, introspective character study that rewards viewers who are willing to invest their time and attention. The ending may be ambiguous, but it's satisfying in its own way, leaving viewers with much to ponder and discuss.