Lost in Translation

Modern Tokyo in its sprawling metropolitan anonymity becomes an alien place for two Americans who happen to find themselves in the same hotel. Bob, an actor, has come to film a whisky commercial, while younger Charlotte accompanies her photographer husband. Neither understands the language nor the culture, both have plenty of time, and both suffer from insomnia. A chance encounter and a few shared days help them bridge their loneliness in unfamiliar surroundings - and perhaps they gain something more.

Sofia Coppola avoids traditional romantic-story clichés in this film, building the narrative on melancholy, fragile moments, and quiet resonance against the backdrop of a frenetic metropolis. The film became an international sensation, and Coppola won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Bill Murray was nominated for an Oscar for his performance and won numerous other prestigious awards - the film launched a second phase of his acting career. Similarly, Scarlett Johansson's role here opened doors to stardom.