
Listen to the Universe
2019

2023
Director
Shunji Iwai
Runtime
178 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetSynopsis
Luca lost her family in the Great East Japan Earthquake causing her not to be able to speak. However, her singing voice shakes the hearts of those who listen to her. It is a hymn of compassion played by Luca and the people.
Overall Score
Fair
Category Breakdown
LGBTQ+ Representation
The film lacks explicit mention of queer identities or non-heteronormative relationships. While the focus on compassion suggests emotional depth, there is no clear evidence of LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Gender Representation
Luca, the female protagonist, finds agency through musicality rather than verbal command. This approach challenges traditional dialogue-driven leadership roles for women in drama.
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
The setting and cast reflect a homogeneous Japanese demographic tied to a specific national tragedy. It offers deep localized context rather than intersectional racial blending.
Religious & Cultural Diversity
The narrative explores community rebuilding and emotional morality following a national catastrophe. It prioritizes human connection and compassion over rigid social or institutional structures.
Disability Representation
Luca’s inability to speak due to trauma is a central, dignified element of her identity. Her silence becomes a unique way of communicating through song rather than a deficit.
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
AI Analysis
Kyrie is a character-driven drama that finds its strength in the nuanced portrayal of a non-verbal protagonist. By centering Luca's musical expression, the film elevates her disability from a perceived deficit to a powerful tool of connection. The film excels at exploring the emotional landscape of survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake. It uses music to navigate the complexities of trauma and recovery, offering a sophisticated look at how art can bridge gaps in communication. However, the film operates within a relatively narrow demographic and cultural scope. While it provides deep localized meaning, it lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or broader racial diversity.

2019

2014

2025

2024

1998

2021

2024

2019

1998

2017

2000

2020
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.