Felice...Felice... is a compelling and thought-provoking film directed by Peter Delpeut and centers on an intricate love story that transpires in Japan during the 19th century. Starring the exceptional Johan Leysen, alongside Toshie Ogura and Rina Yasami, the film is an exploration of love, identity, memory, and history.

The film primarily features a celebrated Dutch photographer, Felice Beato, from the 19th Century, convincingly portrayed by Johan Leysen. Beato was an actual historical figure noted for his pioneering photographic work and his key role in documenting significant historical events across the globe.

In the film, as Beato returns to Japan after decades spent overseas, he is greeted not just by the landscape he formerly documented, but by the disheartening realization that much of the Japan he once knew has changed dramatically. This transformation of Japan mirrors Beato's own inner struggle as he grapples with love, emotions, and the passage of time.

As the plot unfurls, it introduces us to Mrs. Sakiko, brought to life with grace by Toshie Ogura, who happens to be the wife of an old friend of Beato. Sakiko develops a curious interest in Beato's passion for photography and offers to help him restore some of his old photographs. Simultaneously, Sakiko yearns to carve an identity for herself and learns the art of photography under Beato's guidance, fueling the impending complexity of their relationship.

An additional layer of complexity is added through the character of Kiku, Sakiko's daughter, played by Rina Yasami, who while described as a woman with a developmental disability, possesses an enigmatic charm and a unique perspective of the world around her. As the story evolves, so does the link between these three characters, making for an enthralling narrative.

Felice… Felice… masterfully captures Beato's journey of confronting his past and his perceptions of life and love while exploring the transformative aspect of time and the ephemeral nature of memories. Leysen's portrayal of Beato delivers a profound sense of authenticity, allowing the audience to truly understand his inner turmoil and his passion for photography.

Toshie Ogura's performance as Mrs. Sakiko also deserves special mention. She effortlessly imbibes the aura of a woman yearning for acceptance and agency in an otherwise traditional society, her character lending heart to the intricate narrative. Moreover, Rina Yasami's portrayal of the unrestrained and whimsical Kiku adds a charming dynamic to the story, enhancing the overall emotional depth of the film.

Felice...Felice... makes striking use of photography as a medium, treating it as almost a character in its own right. The movie offers a critique of the very essence of photography, addressing the idea of how it captures a single moment in time, simultaneously freezing and distorting reality. These commentary on photography beautifully intertwines with the plot, offering much food for thought for the viewer.

Moreover, the movie offers a rich exploration of Japan's transition from the traditional past to a rapidly Westernizing modernity. It also delves into the changing perceptions of art and identity within the rapidly transforming world. Beato's journey is essentially a journey through time, bringing into view various aspects of societal changes, relationships, and the altering power dynamics between the East and the West.

Felice...Felice... is a tale spun with delicate threads of history, memory, and love. The film is an emotionally rich, visually captivating tapestry that offers a deeply intimate look at the characters' lives while also presenting a broader commentary on art, society, and time. Though set in an era many years past, its exploration of human feelings, memories, and identities ensures that it retains a timeless relevance.