Café Lumière (2003)

Rating: * * * * * (Out of 5)

It is amazing that one of the very best directors in the world is so little known in the US. Only one of his films (Millenium Mambo) has ever been picked up for distribution here.

In this homage to Yasujiro Ozu, Hou Hsiao-Hsien seems to be even more Ozu than Ozu. The sparse narrative offers quiet images and keenly observed details. The tranquil pillow shots of trains give a nod to the old master. The character's travel mirrors the director's own metaphysical journey to immerse himself in the cinematic influence of his spiritual mentor.

In our culture of extravagant visuals and rapid cutting tailored for the attention deficits, Mr. Hou has turned back the clock to a era of simple moving images. Images that are more enchanting and more captivating because of their simplicity. I love this picture!