Distance (2001 film)

Distance is a 2001 Japanese film directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda. It explores themes of family, guilt, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of a tragic event. The film follows a group of people who are connected to a doomsday cult similar to Aum Shinrikyo, four years after the cult committed a devastating act of terrorism.

The plot centers around the cult members' families, who gather annually near a remote mountain lake to commemorate the deceased cultists. On this particular year, the families are joined by a former cult member who participated in the attack, and their shared grief and unanswered questions lead them on a journey into the mountains. They attempt to understand the motivations of the cultists and confront their own roles in the tragedy. The film uses a non-linear narrative structure, interweaving flashbacks and present-day events to slowly reveal the characters' relationships and the complexities of the situation.

Unlike many films about cults, Distance does not focus on the sensationalistic aspects of the group's activities. Instead, it delves into the emotional and psychological consequences of the attack, exploring the lingering pain, the search for redemption, and the difficulty of moving forward after such a traumatic experience. The film is known for its subtle and understated approach, relying on nuanced performances and evocative cinematography to convey the characters' inner turmoil. It is considered a significant work in Kore-eda's filmography, known for its compassionate and humanistic portrayal of complex social issues.