Big Dreams Little Tokyo

Watch Big Dreams Little Tokyo

"Because a fish out of water is best served with ginger and wasabi."
  • NR
  • 2006
  • 1 hr 25 min
  • 6.3  (314)

Big Dreams Little Tokyo is a charming independent comedy that chronicles the journey of Boyd, a young American man who dreams of becoming a successful businessman in Japan. The movie, directed by Dave Boyle, is a heartwarming exploration of cultural identity and self-discovery, with a strong message about the importance of finding one's place in the world and following one's passions.

The film stars Dave Boyle as Boyd, a California native who has dedicated his life to mastering the Japanese language and culture, with a goal of becoming a successful businessman. Despite his earnest efforts, however, Boyd has never been able to find his footing in Japan, which he finds to be a bewildering and alienating place.

When Boyd meets Jun, a Japanese-American man who has just returned from a successful business venture in Tokyo, he sees an opportunity to learn from someone who shares his passion and culture. As he begins to work with Jun and his colleague Miko, however, Boyd realizes that he has been as much of an outsider in the United States as he is in Japan. With Jun's help, Boyd begins to gain a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him, gradually developing the skills and confidence he needs to pursue his dreams.

The movie is filled with quirky and memorable characters, from Boyd's eccentric Japanese language teacher to his mischievous younger brother, who serves as a comic foil to his more serious sibling. There are also plenty of moments of humor and insight, as Boyd navigates Japanese business culture, tackles romantic woes, and confronts his own limitations and fears.

One of the strengths of the movie is how it explores the challenges and joys of cultural identity, as Boyd grapples with the tension between his American heritage and his love for Japanese culture. The film also delves into the complexities of Japanese-American identity, as Jun struggles to reconcile his proud heritage with his own personal goals and values.

At its heart, though, Big Dreams Little Tokyo is a movie about following one's dreams, no matter how daunting or unlikely they may seem. Boyd's determination and passion are infectious, and by the end of the film, viewers will be rooting for him to succeed in his quest to bridge the gap between two cultures and find a place in the world.

The movie is visually appealing, with gorgeous shots of Tokyo and California, and a musical score that blends traditional Japanese music with contemporary pop and rock. The acting is top-notch, particularly from Boyle, who conveys Boyd's earnestness and vulnerability with charm and wit.

Overall, Big Dreams Little Tokyo is a delightful and uplifting film that will leave viewers with a renewed appreciation for the power of determination and the beauty of cultural diversity. Whether you are a fan of independent comedies, Japanese culture, or stories about following your dreams, this movie is a must-see.

Big Dreams Little Tokyo
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Description
  • Release Date
    2006
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 25 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.3  (314)