FILM REVIEW: 'Like Father, Like Son'

The new film "Like Father, Like Son" provides a unique perspective on the dilemma of "switched at birth." It examines compassionate decision making that greatly alters not only the lives of children but the parents as well.

This is the story of two families. The Nonomiyas are living what they believe to be the Japanese dream. Father Ryota (Masaharu Fukuyama) is a highly successful, workaholic architect. But that success has taken its toll on his wife, Midori (Machiko Ono), and their 6-year-old son, Keita. Yet Ryota's prioritizing work over spending time with his family goes unmentioned.

The Saikis, on the other hand, live a simple life. Father Yudai (Lily Franky) owns an electrical shop, which brings him and his family great pleasure but little money. Yudai's interaction with his wife, Yukari (Yoko Maki), and their three children is a constant source of pure joy. His 6-year-old son, Ryusei, especially worships his father.

When a blood test required for Keita to enter school reveals that he is not the Nonomiyas' biological child, lives begin to unravel. The hospital at fault suggests that the families meet, spend time together and, eventually, exchange sons. After a year of assimilation visits, the switch is made.

Ryota, who expects perfection from a child, initially comments, "Now it all makes sense," when he learns Keita is not his son. But when Ryusei moves in, Ryota finds it inexplicable that the child has petty faults. Does his blood truly flow through Ryusei's veins? The poor child picks up on his new father's disappointment and runs away. Neither Ryusei nor Keita can comprehend being torn away from their family.

Director Hirokazu Kore-eda ("After Life") treads touchy subject matter with immense emotional insight. He never stoops to sentimentality but, rather, navigates a steady course of exploration in this beautifully crafted film. The heartbreaking premise is wonderfully balanced with humor, love and exquisite cinematography. Most importantly, there are no villains in his story.

"Like Father, Like Son" presents its audience with a vast array of dilemmas. There are no clear-cut answers. Those are left up to us. It's a rare film that demands participation by examining our own set of values. And one need not be a parent to become totally immersed in the process. We're naturally drawn to the characters because they are us ... flawed, fallible and yet wanting to do what's right.

"Like Father, Like Son" is a perspective on parenting. The director seems to be alluding to the fact that it's like feeling one's way around in the dark, hoping to be enlightened.