Reconsidering Human Connection Through Solitary Deaths

"The Farewell Party" centers on John May, a meticulous and sincere local government official. Director Uberto Pasolini, who found profound universal themes in a newspaper article about "the job of arranging funerals for those who die alone," personally visited London's welfare department to conduct in-depth interviews with real people and events, resulting in this humorous yet poignant film.

The role of John May is played by Eddie Marsan, a distinguished British actor making his leading role debut. Marsan, who has previously worked with renowned directors such as Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, and Bryan Singer, masterfully portrays the subtle emotional nuances of the protagonist.

Referencing films by director Yasujiro Ozu, the camera remains stationary, capturing the story from a fixed position to create a more serene atmosphere.

Meeting People, Facing Death, and Life Begins to Shine

John May is a welfare officer in London's Kennington district who handles the funerals of those who die alone. While it could be a purely administrative task, he carries out his duties with sincerity.

However, facing redundancy due to staff cutbacks, his final case becomes Billy Stoke, who lived in the apartment opposite John May's. Billy, someone John had lived next to and never exchanged a word with.

To understand Billy's life, John May throws himself into his work with renewed passion. As he visits people who knew the deceased, travels across Britain, and connects with individuals he would never have otherwise met, John May himself begins to embark on a new chapter in his life.

The Farewell Party

Opening Saturday, January 24th, at Cine Switch Ginza and other theaters nationwide.

Director, Screenplay, Producer | Uberto Pasolini

Starring | Eddie Marsan, Joanne Froggatt, Karen Drury, Andrew Buchan

Distribution | Bitters End

2013 / UK-Italy / 91 min / Original Title "STILL LIFE"

http://www.bitters.co.jp/omiokuri

© Exponential (Still Life) Limited 2012