
The Shortest Distance Is Round
2019

Representation Score
Fair
2020
Director
Bunji Sotoyama
Runtime
111 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
Soiree is a gritty exploration of social displacement that avoids the comforts of idealized family structures. It succeeds by centering on characters operating on the fringes of social acceptability, challenging conventional expectations of domestic stability. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of a broken patriarchal system and its emphasis on individual survival and unconventional companionship over legal morality. However, the film remains limited by its homogeneous setting and lack of visible representation of LGBTQ+, ethnic diversity, or disability.
Category Breakdown
The film centers around a romantic relationship between Shota and Takara. However, there is no explicit mention of LGBTQ+ identities or relationships that challenge traditional heterosexual norms.
Takara is a central protagonist who navigates extreme familial trauma. The story gives her a significant role in driving the narrative as she chooses to partner with Shota to escape her volatile home environment.
Set in Tokyo and Wakayama, the film reflects a homogeneous ethnic landscape. It does not include diverse ethnic backgrounds or break traditional casting norms.
The narrative critiques traditional family structures by portraying a patriarchal figure as a source of violence. It prioritizes subjective morality over rigid social or legal adherence, emphasizing personal choice over societal norms.
There is no evidence of neurodivergence or physical impairment mentioned in the story. No representation of disability is visible in the provided details.
Present on Screen
Limited or Absent
Official Synopsis
Shota came to Tokyo to become an actor but has a side hustle in petty crime. On a trip back to his hometown in Wakayama he meets Takara, who is being assaulted by her father just sprung from prison. Soon they pair up and hit the road to escape.

2019

1998

2021

2019

1993

2020

2019

2011
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!
Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.