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Lucky Life is a contemplative drama directed by Lee Isaac Chung and released in 2010. The film follows the story of a young man named Dan Mercer (Daniel O'Keefe), who has come to Japan to teach English after graduating from college. Over time he develops close relationships with both his students and the locals, but his experiences are cut short when he is tragically killed in a car accident. The film is set in the aftermath of Dan's death and explores the impact that his life had on those who knew him.

As the film opens, Dan is shown to be a quiet and introspective young man who is trying to find his place in the world. He takes a teaching job in a small town in Japan and gradually becomes acquainted with the locals, including a group of schoolchildren who he teaches. His interactions with his students are depicted with a sense of warmth and affection, and it is clear that Dan cares deeply about their well-being. He also begins a relationship with a local woman named Hiromi (Megan McKenna), and the two develop a deep connection.

After Dan's sudden death, the film shifts focus to the way that his absence affects those left behind. The locals are shown grieving for him in their own way, and Dan's family back in the US is contacted and informed of his passing. Throughout the film, scenes of everyday life in the town are juxtaposed with scenes of the aftermath of the accident, emphasizing the fragility of life and the way that tragedy can strike unexpectedly.

One of the most striking aspects of Lucky Life is its use of visual imagery. The film is shot in a moody, contemplative style that evokes a sense of sadness and introspection. While the film's pacing is deliberate, it is not slow or ponderous – instead, the approach is sensitive and deeply empathetic. There is a sense of intimacy and closeness in the way that characters are presented, and this helps to create a powerful emotional connection with the audience.

The film's central theme is the power of memory, and how it can help us to cope with loss. Throughout the film, characters are shown reminiscing about Dan, and the stories they tell help to keep his memory alive. One particularly moving scene involves a group of schoolchildren placing origami birds on Dan's grave as a tribute to him. The film suggests that memories are a vital part of the human experience, and that they can help us to find solace even in the darkest of times.

Overall, Lucky Life is a poignant and deeply affecting drama that looks at the way that loss can affect us. The film is beautifully acted and directed, and the intimate focus on character and emotion makes it a powerful piece of storytelling. Its message about the importance of memory is one that is likely to resonate with viewers long after the credits have rolled. Highly recommended for fans of contemplative drama and character-driven storytelling.

Lucky Life is a 2010 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.