Tetsuya Nakashima’s first feature film in seven years marks a dramatic change in tone for the auteur best known for the aesthetic excesses of films such as Memories of Matsuko and Kamikaze Girls.

The Brightest Sun may begin with the investigation into the murder of a corrupt former police officer, but it quickly subverts expectations, pivoting into a surprisingly poignant exploration of grief, disability and the burden of parenthood.

Adapted from the novel by Bunzo Uchiumi, The Brightest Sun boasts one of the most impressive Japanese ensemble casts in recent memory, including Koji Yakusho, Shinya Tsukamoto and Ko Shibasaki in supporting roles.

Read my full South China Morning Post review here