Watch Swallowtail Butterfly

Swallowtail Butterfly is a 1996 Japanese movie directed by Shunji Iwai, starring Hiroshi Mikami, Chara, and Ayumi Ito. The movie is set in Yen Town, a fictional neighborhood in Tokyo inhabited by a diverse community of people from all parts of the world. The story focuses on a young woman named Glico, played by Chara, who has come to Yen Town to make a better life for herself.

Glico is a Thai immigrant who works as a prostitute in Yen Town to support herself and her young daughter. Despite her difficult circumstances, Glico dreams of one day making enough money to return to Thailand and start a new life. Glico has a talent for singing, and she hopes to use her voice to escape her current situation.

Glico's life changes when she meets a young man named Yuji, played by Hiroshi Mikami, who runs a bar in Yen Town. Yuji is a kind-hearted and gentle person who is beloved by everyone in the neighborhood, but he is also something of a loner. Yuji is drawn to Glico and her talent, and he offers her a chance to perform at his bar.

As Glico begins to perform at Yuji's bar, she attracts the attention of other people in Yen Town. One of these people is a young woman named Chinatsu, played by Ayumi Ito, who is also a singer. Chinatsu is a Japanese woman who has always felt like an outsider in her own country, and she sees in Glico a kindred spirit. Together, Glico and Chinatsu form a bond that transcends cultural boundaries and language barriers.

But as Glico's star begins to rise, she also begins to attract the attention of the local mob boss, who sees Glico and Yuji's bar as a threat to his own business interests. The mob boss sends his men to threaten and intimidate Glico and Yuji, and the two of them are forced to confront the violent side of Yen Town.

Swallowtail Butterfly is a powerful and moving movie that explores themes of identity, immigration, and the search for connection in a multicultural world. The movie is not only a love story but also a study of the human condition.

The movie is also notable for its unique visual style. Director Shunji Iwai employs a variety of techniques, including split screens, intercutting between color and black and white, and use of still photographs, to create an immersive and dreamlike environment. The movie also features a memorable soundtrack by Takeshi Kobayashi, which includes both original songs and covers of western pop hits.

Overall, Swallowtail Butterfly is a beautiful and captivating movie that tells a thought-provoking story about the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit. The performances are superb, particularly from Chara, who brings a complex and nuanced portrayal to her character. The movie also features an excellent supporting cast, including Ayumi Ito and Hiroshi Mikami, who add depth and richness to the story. If you're a fan of emotionally resonant dramas and unique visual styles, Swallowtail Butterfly is definitely worth checking out.