Film Review: In Love and Deep Water クレイジークルーズ (2023) - Japan
Rating: 7/10
Support my goal of writing one film review per day in 2025 - https://www.patreon.com/neofilmreviews
Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)
"In Love and Deep Water" (2023), directed by Yusuke Taki, takes audiences on a thrilling voyage aboard the MSC Bellissima, a luxurious cruise ship bound for the Aegean Sea. The film follows Suguru Ubukata (Ryo Yoshizawa), a butler on board, whose encounter with the enigmatic passenger Chizuru Banjaku (Aoi Miyazaki) unravels a suspenseful murder mystery.
Yusuke Taki crafts a visually captivating experience, utilizing the ship's grandeur to set the stage for intrigue and suspense. Shohei Tanigawa's cinematography beautifully captures the opulence of the cruise ship and the vastness of the sea, immersing viewers in this high-stakes setting.
The standout performances by Ryo Yoshizawa and Aoi Miyazaki anchor the film, their on-screen chemistry adding depth to the unfolding mystery. Supporting cast members such as Yo Yoshida, Rinko Kikuchi, and Kento Nagayama deliver solid performances, enhancing the ensemble dynamic.
Yuji Sakamoto's screenplay skillfully weaves together elements of suspense, drama, and romance, keeping audiences engaged throughout the 127-minute runtime. The narrative unfolds at a steady pace, building tension and intrigue as the characters navigate the complexities of the murder case.
While "In Love and Deep Water" offers a compelling blend of genres and a strong ensemble cast, it occasionally falters in maintaining narrative coherence, with certain plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, some character motivations may leave viewers wanting more depth and exploration.
Overall, "In Love and Deep Water" is a stylish thriller that offers a captivating glimpse into the world of luxury cruises, anchored by strong performances and a suspenseful plot. While it may not reach the heights of cinematic perfection, the film delivers an engaging experience that will satisfy fans of mystery and drama. (Neo, 2025)