The Japanese Embassy in cooperation with the Indian Embassy held the screening of the film “After the Flower” last Friday at its premises in Riyadh. The film, based on the famous novel of the same name by Shuhei Fujisawa, was directed by Kenji Nakanishi.

Japanese Ambassador Jiro Kodera welcomed some 80 guests to the event including diplomats and other invitees.

After the Flower is a period film depicting Japan in the 18th century. The historical drama revolving around Ito, a strong woman sword master played by Keiko Kitagawa, shows up the impact of Japan’s Edo period which was characterized by economic growth, strict social order, isolationist foreign policies and flourishing popular entertainment of arts and culture.

Ito encounters another sword master, Magoshiro, whom she falls in love with instantly but has to sacrifice her love for the call of duty as she is already betrothed to a man decided by her family as her future husband. When Magoshiro commits suicide due to conspiracy, Ito takes up her sword to revenge him.

The story is a bitter-sweet romance and had the audience in tears at the end. The film also presents in minute detail the unique Japanese culture of the Edo period. It is remarkable how the film’s characters not only very delicately hide their emotions but also how discrete they are when expressing them, which may still be a custom in Japan.

Universal values such as family ties, love and pride dominate the story. The film received rave reviews because of its fascinating story, idyllic scenes and the beautiful presentation of Japanese culture and tradition.