User Reviews

Dreaming Murakami is a documentary interested in closely observing Mette Holm (Danish Translator) work and dynamics. The documentary shows some significant phases of the creation, the emotional bedlam, the artistic choice, and the existential thought process behind the art literary translation. I'm not a huge follower of Murakami's works but I enjoyed the documentary. I expected a take on the author's life and the result was not what I was expecting, but it's intriguing to sneak inside the psyche of the translator. I have heard so many people have been inspired by Murakami's works and it served as an inspiration to start studying Japanese. Likewise, the Danish translator Mette Holm's passion leads her to another portal and her dedication transcends the documentary form and turns into a character. The Frog, Moon, Cat, and the magical forest serve as a parallel between the two worlds. I was very curious to watch and I expected a great documentary movie. I was wrong! There are positive aspects, practically the originality and the adopted technique in the narrative. Unfortunately, the plot is shallow, maybe aimed at a niche audience. But that doesn't make this a bad watch. That's how Murakami's works are! Kudos to the director, he bravely captures the struggling human mind who goes through gamut of emotions while translating Murakami's works in danish language. I loved the segment in Japan when the very first stay of Mette Holm is shown also the happy bar owner who owns vinyl records scene. We're treated to glimpses of Mette Holm's passion and also her early days in Japan. II feel that getting the literary translation complete right is so important and an emotionally draining process and I have least as much respect for Mette Holm as I have for the author. Overall, Dreaming Murakami is far from being labelled as one the BEST, but it is undeniably creative and interesting. As much works as doesn't about it and the material could have been stronger for a better output, but it is still an experience worth having if you know what you are getting into and it's a must for those who love Haruki Murakami or Japan. I recommend it for non-Murakami fans as well as the soulful experience of the translator was something to take away from the documentary. Sit back and watch it Unfold.