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Japan has always dealt with family dynamics in cinema better than any other country, from the classic films of Ozu to Katsuhito Ishii’s recent classic Taste of Tea. Still Walking is the latest in this line, and director Hirokazu Kore-Eda makes it one of the best.

Kore-Eda is largely referred to in foreign film critic circles as Japan’s greatest director, and while I certainly don’t agree, the accusation does have some merit. He’s always dealt with heavy, complex issues with deceptively simple storytelling (the aftermath of tragedy in Distance being a particular highpoint), focusing impressively on long takes and small details.

Still Walking is no different, as it follows 24 hours of a family gathering for the 15th anniversary of an eldest son’s death. Generational problems emerge, regrets are forced to be faced, and no character’s emotional flaws are spared. It’s satisfying, slow-burn narrative works wonders thanks to practically flawless acting, especially Hiroshi Abe in his greatest performance yet.

Japanese cinema has been quite disappointing as of late, but it’s works from masters like this that keep my hope alive.