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I can't sympathize with the protagonist despite the painful circumstances she has grown up in. I also can't agree with the theme of assisted suicide, which seems to be thrown in gratuitously. This aspect makes the protagonist not a victim, but a monster. Volunteering to help a young woman to die is a strange and morbid theme. Ichiko ends up helping not just one, but two people to kill themselves, which is sick and evil. About ending her sister's debilitated existence, thereby ending the painful nursing responsibilities of her mother and herself, I can sympathize. But the director confuses the audience by using the young Ichiko as the sick sister, and using the adult Ichiko to play the culprit. Sad people, a sad story, but death can't be the answer.

This incredible drama, by a stellar director, featuring some truly oustanding actors - is definitely one of the better films of the year, and a great showcase for this incredible movie season, indeed. Seldom has the sensations of growing up, of every day life, tragedies and hardships - been conveyed as splendidly and thouroughly as in this incredible drama. Truly outstanding writing, expertly paced, and truly the work of an auteur. The cinematography, cutting and editing is incredible, very unique, artistic, and very beautifully put together- lots of interesting metaphorical and allegorical sensations. Overall, definitely an incredible and artistic drama, and one that is ever recommended for any lover of film!