Toni Collette is one of those actresses who seems to perpetually fly under the radar. Even after playing a major role in The Sixth Sense back in 1999 – which earned her an Oscar nomination – she never really became a household name. Much of this is probably of her own doing. Staying out of the spotlight does have its advantages. However, after delivering strong performances in films like Little Miss Sunshine, The Night Listener and The Dead Girl, Collette is deserving of more recognition. I dislike throwing around words like “brave” to describe actors, but it’s an appropriate word to describe Collette’s style and choices. One of her best, and my personal favorite, was in the little seen Japanese Story.

Collette plays Sandy, an Australian geologist with a gruff personality. So, when she’s pegged to chaperon a Japanese businessman named Hiromitsu around the outback, she’s none too pleased. The language barrier is the least of their problems. Hiromitsu’s penchant to ignore her while dragging her across the expansive desert snapping photos, rubs Sandy the wrong way. After their jeep bogs down, the tension between the two increases. Yelling and screaming gives way to them working together to free their trapped vehicle. What ensues is a fascinating explorations into an unlikely relationship. Friendship gradually morphs into romance, as Sandy and Hiromitsu discover that loneliness is one trait that bonds us all.

Director Sue Brooks and writer Alison Tilson weave together a poetic and powerful story. What begins as a standard opposites attract story becomes something very different. The emotions are pure as both characters come to to realize they can learn much from each other. The script could have easily taken a wrong turn on many occasions, but it stays the course throughout. Preconceived prejudices and notions about women and Japanese culture are blown wide open. The evolution of Sandy and Hiromitsu’s coupling may appear illogical on the surface, but upon closer examination, it’s very natural. Removed from the hectic pressures of their daily lives allows them to do what has been lacking most. To relax, laugh and appreciate all the beauty nature has to offer.

Collette gives the performance of her career as Sandy. She fully commits to the role and never misses a beat. Watching her succumb to passion in a gentle, caring way is a wonder. In addition, Gotaro Tsunashima holds his own in his portrayal of Hiromitsu. A quiet, reserved persona who closely checks his emotions isn’t easy to play. They are normally positioned to be unlikable and therefore come across as one note and vapid. Credit Alison Tilson for crafting a multi-leveled character and Tsunashima for being able to garner empathy and sympathy. Japanese Story is a precisely paced, unpredictable narrative. If you’re not familiar with Toni Collette’s career, this film would provide a fine introduction to her talents.

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