Big in Japan (2014) User Reviews

Very interesting example small film making

[michaeljtrubic · 7/10 · 26 February 2016]

interesting original premise

many remarkable scenes seemed to have been spur of the moment using real people most likely without permits

when small personal camera equipment can produce almost professional results you can expect to see more productions like these shot-on-a- shoestring ones coming around

surprisingly how enjoyable these things can be when you realize than so much of good film-making relies on a good premise, like-able characters, interesting scenery and unusual circumstances.

many larger productions throw money around to try to get what these film-makers have either gotten for next to nothing or maybe even for free.

Just a fun band road trip, you'll laugh repeatedly

[lisagaejones · 8/10 · 22 September 2014]

This movie is hilarious in so many ways, from the hallucinatory trip (using only Japanese cultural imagery) after drinking a mysterious Japanese cocktail, the band's sorry accommodations in Tokyo, their day jobs in Seattle, romance, band family issues, cool animation, to the massage of all massages, and that's just a smattering of plot elements. The movie answers some tough questions, such as, Can you really sell a beat-up van and reap enough money for three people to travel to Japan? What old Seattle band is the most popular band in Japan? Why is Nirvana such a disturbing word? Will your wife feel okay about you sharing a room with a hooker? If you fall asleep at a bar in Tokyo what happens? What tattoo would you get in Japan if you had nothing else to do? Did you know that record execs are not very loyal? Can cello music make you cry? Believe me, you'll find out. Happily, this is not another "mockumentary," but a movie about a real Seattle band that isn't making it anymore (if it every did) and wants to try one more time to be huge ...somewhere! I am a boomer and though the music and grunge references are not a big part of my life, that doesn't matter. If you love music, road trip movies and the genuinely bizarre, you will enjoy yourself immensely watching "Big in Japan."

It's like the Hangover.. but in Japan lol

[uluvmyafro · 8/10 · 9 November 2022]

You know what, I'm glad I ran into this movie by chance. It's not for everyone though. I think if you have a strong interest on what's it like in being Tokyo Japan, as well as being into rock music then this is probably for you.

Although you can tell this movie was made in an indie format, it still did a lot of justice with a great soundtrack, quirky characters, and pretty good cinematography. This movie showcases how far friendship and being goal orientated can take you when it comes to achieving something you cant see. I ONLY WISH they shot this movie on film, in my opinion it would of been 5x better because everything looks better on film when shooting in Tokyo. Phil really stole the show with his eccentric personality and optimism. Definitely won't mind watching this again. As a matter of fact, I"ll watch it next month during my 14 hr flight to Japan lol.