Tourist (2018)

The Travellers

Three episodes, three stories, three destinations. The common denominator that binds the diverse narrative, Haruma Miura, who appears in all three episodes of this omnibus production.

This anthology miniseries is a fusion of dramatic storytelling and immersive travelogue presented in a format of three short films, each helmed by its own individual director which features a distinctive premise, storytelling approach, cinematographic style, music score and atmospherics.

Tourist is the first drama ever produced by Paravi, a Japanese premium OTT platform which began operations in the same year. Santa Yamagishi, Smith and Hatsuki Yokoo directed episodes 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The screenplays for episodes 1 and 2 were written by Yasuko Kuramitsu (Imawa no Kuni no Alice) and Yuichi Toyone while episode 3 was written by Mitsuki Yoshida. The award-winning 4-member Korean indie band, Hyukoh provided two of their hit songs for the production, namely Comes and Goes (opening theme) and LOVE YA! (ending theme). Principal photography took place across all three locations of Bangkok, Taipei and Ho Chi Minh.

What I Loved

This is a quality production with sleek cinematography that makes the most of the gorgeous filming locales through intimately framed moments and vividly depicted scenes. Each of the three episodes appears remarkably cinematic with a slightly raw edge and the kind of tastefully-rendered colour grading as well as warm palettes that I appreciate. Superb direction and design in a mostly outdoor setting has further augmented this very well produced drama.

The conceptual and somewhat surrealistic storylines that focus primarily on human drama are uniquely crafted with convincing relatability and depth to the characterizations, imbued with no lack of emotional complexity, intrigue and tension. All three episodes were a joy to behold.

I absolutely adored Haruma Miura’s performance in this entire production. His portrayal of the charming stranger in each story, Makoto Ameku, is utterly mesmerising which speaks volumes of the massive talent and charisma he possessed. To be honest, I did feel an immense sadness while watching his scenes in this drama - the world has undeniably lost such a fine actor in Haruma Miura, and we as viewers are very much the poorer for it.

Episode 1 - Bangkok

The troubled TV producer, Satsuki Nogami, played by Asami Mizukawa, faces an existential crisis where she questions the purpose of her existence before pondering the potential for cathartic release offered through death. A fateful encounter with Makoto Ameku following an incident of snatch theft leads to a session of “compensated dating” that eventually reinvigorates her outlook on life. I thought Asami Mizukawa delivered a heartfelt performance in this segment.

Episode 2 - Taipei

The due-to-be-married Honoka Tsunomori, portrayed by the effervescent Ikeda Eliza, goes on a bachelorette trip to Taipei with her friends before returning home to tie the knot. An unexpected turn of events leads to her chance meeting with Makoto Ameku, with whom she experiences an evening of thrills and spills. Ikeda Eliza manifests a youthful exuberance in her interpretation of a conflicted young woman who endures the pre-wedding jitters. This episode ended up being the most unusual and rather fun, with an infusion of Taiwanese cultural elements.

Episode 3 - Ho Chi Minh

Machiko Ono’s Kaoru Tachibana, who is going through marriage problems, chases after her two-timing husband and his mistress to Ho Chi Minh. She comes across a stranger, Makoto Ameku, who she enlists to assist her in tracking down the adulterous couple. Machiko Ono’s performance is perhaps the most nuanced in a convoluted story amongst the female leads in the drama.

Final Thoughts

Each of the stories depicted is simple yet believable, relatable, poignant and heartfelt. They subtly explore the underlying theme of self discovery where every character at long last attains a certain degree of self-actualization and closure to a chapter of their lives.
This production featuring a memorable performance by Haruma Miura truly deserves to be seen and appreciated. Despite being relatively short, Tourist has been an unforgettable viewing experience for me.

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