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A Haunting Tale of Survival and Revenge: Where Elders Get a Second Chance
Jason_Fields
Film and TV•
4.0
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Dendera
Productstar 4.0

Dendera

Dendera is a 2011 film that's got a pretty unique vibe going on. I'm talking edge-of-your-seat drama and mystery that'll keep you hooked from start to finish. The story's got some real twists and turns, and the characters are so well-developed you'll be thinking about them long after the credits roll.
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A Haunting Tale of Survival and Revenge: Where Elders Get a Second Chance

summarizeEditor's Summary

This film takes a unique approach to Japan's aging population problem, drawing inspiration from an old folktale about abandoned elderly relatives. Director Daishuke Ten-gan's vision is both haunting and thought-provoking, focusing on the human spirit's ability to persevere. The all-female cast delivers impressive performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. While the pacing can be slow at times, the film's themes of survival and revenge are undeniably compelling. With its raw, unflinching portrayal of aging and human resilience, this movie is a must-see for fans of character-driven dramas.

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Kararİyi
KonuBicimi7/10
Performanslar9/10
HikayeKalitesi8/10
A Haunting Tale of Survival and Revenge: Where Elders Get a Second Chance
The film draws inspiration from an old Japanese folktale about how families would abandon their elderly relatives in the mountains or forests, leaving them to fend for themselves. This theme is revisited by director Daishuke Ten-gan because Japan's got a major problem on its hands - a significant chunk of the population is aging, and the country's struggling to care for them.
Set in a world where the elderly are basically disposable, the film starts with Kayo Saito (Ruriko Asaoka), who's just turned 70, being taken to the mountains by her son. But what she finds there is a real shocker: Mie Mitsuya (Mitsuko Kusabue), who was abandoned 30 years ago, is still kicking! This feisty woman refused to give up and created a thriving community called Dendera, where she settled the elderly women she rescued (she left the men to fend for themselves). And get this - she's got a plan to exact revenge on the village that abandoned her.
The film's got all female leads, and they're not exactly Hollywood beauties - they're wrinkled, gray-haired, and totally unglamorized. It's kinda funny and heartbreaking to watch them move around, trying to carry firewood, sculpting mannequins, and hunting rabbits like they're still young. Despite their age, they're thriving in extreme conditions, but they feel free and needed in their youth. They even manage to joke and have fun: septuagenarian women are referred to as 'girls.'
This isn't exactly a laugh-out-loud comedy, but it's not meant to be. It's a thought-provoking, harsh, and even heavy film that's packed with a tremendous amount of life force. Sometimes, it reveals itself in unexpected ways. Kayo Saito's got a tough decision to make: should she keep living to live, or live to exact revenge?
The film's ending is a real departure from the norm - it's like a story cut short. I'm not entirely sure I get it, but I'd still recommend watching it.
I'd recommend 'Dendera' to fans of offbeat cinema, those looking for something unique, and soulful films that don't follow the mainstream. If you're in the mood for a light, easy-to-watch film after a long day, you might want to skip it.
For fans of Japanese cinema, I'd also suggest: 'The Ideal Days', 'Fireworks', 'Exit 8', and 'A Year Before Death I Met You'. There's a Brazilian film with a similar theme, but in a sci-fi genre, called 'Blue Trail', which is way more optimistic. I haven't reviewed it, but if you come across it, you might want to check it out if you enjoyed 'Dendera'.
Overall, 'Dendera' is a powerful and thought-provoking film that will leave you feeling moved and inspired. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese cinema, offbeat storytelling, or just great filmmaking in general.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Recommendation: If you're a fan of Japanese cinema, offbeat storytelling, or just great filmmaking, then 'Dendera' is a must-see. However, if you're in the mood for a light, easy-to-watch film, you might want to skip it.
Pros: Powerful storytelling, great performances, thought-provoking themes
Cons: Harsh and heavy at times, may not be suitable for all audiences

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What's the film's take on Japan's aging population problem?

The film draws inspiration from an old folktale about abandoned elderly relatives, exploring the theme of survival and revenge in a world where the elderly are disposable.

Who's the main cast of the film?

The film features an all-female cast, including Ruriko Asaoka and Mitsuko Kusabue in lead roles.

What's the tone of the film?

The film has a haunting and thought-provoking tone, with a strong focus on the human spirit's ability to persevere.

Is the film slow-paced?

Yes, the pacing can be slow at times, making it feel like the film is dragging on a bit.

What's the film's message about aging?

The film offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of aging and human resilience, highlighting the importance of community and support in the face of adversity.

Is the film worth watching?

Yes, the film is a must-see for fans of character-driven dramas, with its unique storyline, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes.

What's the film's rating?

The film has a rating of PG-13 for mature themes and some violence.

Where can I stream the film?

The film is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.

check_circlePros

  • •The film's atmosphere and realism are top-notch, immersing viewers in a world where the elderly are disposable.
  • •The unique storyline is both captivating and thought-provoking, tackling complex themes with sensitivity and nuance.
  • •The strong performances from the all-female cast are a highlight of the film, bringing depth and emotion to their characters.
  • •The themes of survival and revenge are undeniably compelling, making for a gripping watch.
  • •The film's portrayal of aging and human resilience is raw and unflinching, offering a refreshing change of pace from more traditional Hollywood fare.
  • •The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the Japanese landscape in a way that's both breathtaking and haunting.

cancelCons

  • •The pacing can be slow at times, making it feel like the film is dragging on a bit.
  • •The internal conflicts within the Dendera community are not fully explored, leaving some plot threads feeling underdeveloped.
  • •The supporting characters feel a bit one-dimensional, lacking the depth and nuance of the main cast.
  • •The film's themes of survival and revenge can be heavy-handed at times, feeling like a bit of a slog to get through.
  • •The lack of backstory for some characters makes it difficult to fully invest in their journeys.
  • •The film's message about Japan's aging population problem feels a bit heavy-handed, bordering on didactic at times.
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