Outstanding movie, definitely to be seen.

A brother and sister take their daily bus ride to school. A young man in a suit pulls out a gun and hijacks the bus. Three executions and one police siege later, the hijacker is dead and the two children plus bus driver Makoto are the only ones not to be killed.

This dramatic sequence happens in the very beginning of the movie, and the next 3.5 hours (which for me passed quickly!) deals with what happens afterwards for the survivors. The pace is 'slow' but suspensful, and is definitely a movie packed with symbolism, outstanding studies of people, some gorgeous camera angles, and a tinted black and white which was perfect for the movie.

Although the movie is about coming to terms with tragedy, it is more a movie about enjoying life. It is also a small mirror into some parts of Japanese culture.

Strongly recommended, although definitely not your typical 'high-octane shoot them up quick thrills' movie.

Don't miss the 'extras', where there is a short 'interview' with the director.