Kûchû teien

In his fourth full-length film, Toyoshi Toyoda shifts away from the theme of the rebellious youth that he explored in depth in Pornostar, Blue Spring, and 9 Souls. Kuchu Teien appears, at first glance, to be more of a drama and character exploration than a typical Toyoda genre film. However, beneath its beautifully crafted and visually stunning exterior, the film harbors a dark essence. While it initially presents the story of a seemingly happy family, it becomes increasingly evident as the film unfolds that the Kyobashis are far from it. Despite their agreement to be open with one another, everyone in the household is aware that the opposite is true.