Travail 2002
Kentaro Otani's *Travail* (2002) dives into the high-stakes world of professional shogi, following two sisters—Asami and Rina—who navigate the pressures of competition, personal ambition, and romantic disappointment within Tokyo's B League.
Director: Kentaro Otani
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Travail (2002) about?
*Travail* (2002) centers on two sisters, Asami and Rina, who are professional shogi players in Tokyo's B League. Asami's career spirals as she blames her husband for her slump, while Rina grows disillusioned with her musician boyfriend. Their personal and professional lives intertwine as they grapple with ambition, rivalry, and the search for happiness.
Who directed Travail?
Travail (2002) was directed by Kentaro Otani, a filmmaker known for his insightful storytelling and character-driven narratives.
Who stars in Travail?
The film stars Asaka Seto as Asami, Shinya Tsukamoto as Kazuya, Mikako Ichikawa as Rina, and Jun Murakami as Hiroki, with supporting roles from Miyako Yamaguchi and Ren Osugi.
Is Travail (2002) worth watching?
*Travail* (2002) is a quietly compelling drama-comedy that shines in its exploration of ambition and relationships. While it may not be a crowd-pleaser for mainstream audiences, its nuanced performances and thoughtful themes make it worth seeking out for fans of character-driven cinema.
How long is Travail?
Travail (2002) runs for 118 minutes.
About Travail (2002) — Sisters, shogi, and second chances in this drama-comedy gem
Kentaro Otani's *Travail* (2002) dives into the high-stakes world of professional shogi, following two sisters—Asami and Rina—who navigate the pressures of competition, personal ambition, and romantic disappointment within Tokyo's B League. Asami's career hangs in the balance as her slump threatens relegation, while Rina grows weary of her partner's unfulfilled musical dreams. The film blends sharp drama with dry comedy, exploring themes of sibling rivalry, unmet expectations, and the cost of chasing excellence. Set against the backdrop of Japan's competitive shogi scene, *Travail* captures the tension between professional rigor and personal fulfillment, wrapped in a story where every move carries weight—both on and off the board.
Starring Asaka Seto and Shinya Tsukamoto, the movie balances emotional depth with subtle humor, painting a portrait of modern relationships strained by ambition. With its intimate scale and nuanced performances, *Travail* (2002) offers a refreshingly human take on the pressures of success, making it a standout in the drama-comedy genre.