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In The Eel (1997), Yamashita, a white-collar worker, discovers that his wife is having an affair. Overwhelmed by anger, he returns home and ends up killing her. After spending eight years in prison, he decides to start afresh in a quiet village. Using his barber skills that he acquired during his incarceration, he opens a barber shop and keeps to himself, rarely engaging in conversation with others.
In this small village, Yamashita forms a unique bond with an eel that he had encountered while he was in prison, regularly speaking to it as if it were his only confidant. One day, he stumbles upon the unconscious body of Keiko, a young woman who had attempted suicide. Strangely, she reminds him of his deceased wife. Against his better judgement, Yamashita hires Keiko to work at his barber shop. However, he remains distant and does not allow her to get close to him emotionally.
The Eel is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of guilt, isolation, and redemption. It delves into the complex emotions and psychological struggles of its main character, Yamashita, as he tries to navigate his turbulent past while attempting to find solace in his new life. This slow-paced drama offers a poignant reflection on the power of forgiveness and the possibility of finding human connection even in the most unexpected circumstances.
