Jacked In Reviews ‘The Afterlife Photo’ (2023)

Director and writer, Tatsuaki Mizoi brings us an individual (Mitsuki Moriyama) who hires a photography studio to assist with a request they don’t get very often. To be more specific, this client wishes to have some romantic “post-mortem photography” taken with herself and her recently deceased partner.

Stunning yet simplistic, it truly adds towards the overall theme

As well as this refreshingly unique story, it’s accompanied by cinematography that aids the subject matter. Stunning yet simplistic, it truly adds towards the overall theme – that photos are instrumental in conveying the state of things. Not forgetting the fact the film is laced with a beautifully melodic score, put together by Mizoi himself!

From the get-go there’s a clear meticulousness in the small details, each scene either complements the style, drives the plot or invites a feeling. Despite its dark overtone, the film possesses the gift of being able to seamlessly transition from serious to humorous… and even manages to convey eerieness with a single shot!

Moriyama – who brings an authentic innocence to the role – takes us on a journey of loss and mourning like you’ve never seen before, in this heartfelt story.

Tremendous performances, especially from Moriyama – who brings an authentic innocence to the role – she takes us on a journey of loss and mourning like you’ve never seen before, in this heartfelt story.

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