I watched this because Koji Yakusho is one of my favourite actors but didn't really know what to expect. It turned out to be a delightful and at times laugh-out-loud comedy - very low-key, the kind of thing I'd probably watch of a sunday afternoon. It does go on a little bit too long and loses its way a touch in the final act but much of what is here is really heartwarmingly funny, and I usually run a mile from things like that, but this one is subtle and quietly observed.
For cult followers only. This Japanese comedy is an antidote to the American formula of a laugh every 5 to 7 second dross that fills our screens. This is subtle slow and gentle, even more subtle than British comedy. It is also much simpler and plain. This is a low budget film with few props but is endearing and peaceful.