The novel coronavirus continues to spread globally. On April 7th, Japan declared a state of emergency, urging citizens to refrain from non-essential outings. Many people are now spending more time at home. With cinema closures and release delays becoming commonplace, this is a difficult time for film enthusiasts. However, video streaming services offer a perfect solution. For this series, we've enlisted film writer June Makiguchi as our guide to explore movies available at home. In this first installment, we'll introduce original Netflix productions.

"STAY at HOME" has become a global mantra. Just a few months ago, no one could have imagined such a reality. Essential aspects of our lives, along with the nourishment for our souls—theater, concerts, art exhibitions, dining out—so many forms of entertainment that brought us solace and joy, are now subject to unprecedented restrictions.

Lately, my inbox has been flooded with notifications of preview screenings canceled and film releases postponed. Each one makes me lament this reality anew, thinking of the disappointment of the creators, staff, cast, theaters, distributors, and the fans eagerly awaiting new works. It's a situation that rivals the chaos depicted in countless disaster films. Steven Soderbergh's 'Contagion' is currently a topic of discussion, isn't it?

Fortunately, we have options. While it's true that our lives can no longer proceed as before, there's no point in lamenting what's lost. Not all joys have been taken away.

Certainly, I miss the grand screen and immersive sound. However, it seems we'll have to wait a while longer to enjoy new releases in theaters. In the meantime, why not revisit films you missed due to a busy schedule or rewatch cherished favorites in the comfort of your living room? Making the most of what we have and what we can do now is one way to make this challenging period more bearable.

Moreover, we are fortunate to have access to new films through streaming services that were not intended for theatrical release. Many of these productions are of exceptionally high quality. Netflix, for instance, has been consistently producing Academy Award-nominated films. This has sparked debate among some industry professionals about whether films made for television should be eligible for such prestigious awards. Yet, ultimately, film lovers are drawn to quality, regardless of its origin.

Perhaps the most prominent example that silenced cinephiles who once looked down on "TV movies" and brought a fresh perspective to the film world is 'Roma.' Released in 2018, it was director Alfonso Cuarón's first film in five years since 'Gravity.' Set in the Colonia Roma district of Mexico City during a period of political turmoil in the 1970s, the film depicts a tumultuous year in the life of a middle-class family through the eyes of their live-in housekeeper. The everyday scenes, rendered in black and white, are both poetic and deeply personal. Even as an outsider, I felt a profound sense of nostalgia for the characters and their world. This is likely due to the meticulous depiction of daily life, which gradually draws the viewer into the "world of Roma" in the 70s. While the film is considered semi-autobiographical, the essence of "cherished days with family" is a universal treasure that resonates with everyone.

Due to its all-Spanish dialogue, black-and-white cinematography, and unknown cast, the director determined that commercial success was unlikely. Consequently, he opted for distribution rather than a wide theatrical release, making it accessible to audiences worldwide. After a limited theatrical run, Netflix began streaming the film. This year, the documentary 'Roma: The Making Of' was also released.

The film premiered in the competition section of the 75th Venice International Film Festival on August 30, 2018, where it won the Golden Lion. It was submitted by Mexico for the 91st Academy Awards, receiving 10 nominations, the most that year, including Best Picture. It ultimately won Oscars for Best Foreign Language Film, Best Director, and Best Cinematography. However, its exclusion from the Cannes Film Festival due to its lack of theatrical distribution in France became a notable industry topic.

This success story demonstrated that streaming services can deliver original content of equal or even superior quality to major global film studios. Considering that major studios often rely on sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations due to a lack of original ideas, the ability of streaming platforms to produce high-quality original films may stem from their creative freedom, unburdened by the demands of investors focused solely on box office returns.

Netflix also garners support from acclaimed filmmakers. Martin Scorsese is a prime example. In 'The Irishman,' he directed Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in a story chronicling the improbable life of a truck driver, based on the true account of a former hitman. The film delves into his connections with Jimmy Hoffa, the powerful Teamsters union leader second only to the President, and the mafia, offering a fascinating glimpse into the American underworld from the 1950s to the 1980s. This epic tale of the rise and fall of men, woven by legendary actors (and close collaborators), is quintessential Scorsese. The film received 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actor (for Al Pacino and Joe Pesci). 'The Irishman: In Conversation with Martin Scorsese and the Cast' is also highly recommended.

'The Two Popes,' starring acting legends Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, delves into the hidden truths behind a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church. Through the dialogues between Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, the film explores a friendship and mutual respect that transcend differences in ideology. It's a work that could offer much-needed nourishment for many hearts today. It's also fascinating to glimpse another side of Pope Benedict, the first pontiff from South America (Argentina), who is quite popular on social media. Even those uninterested in the Vatican, conclaves, or religion may find themselves moved by the story of a man grappling with his past while striving to move forward. The full-scale replica of the Sistine Chapel, built over two months, is also a sight to behold. The film received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Actor (Jonathan Pryce), Best Supporting Actor (Anthony Hopkins), and Best Adapted Screenplay.

'Marriage Story' rivals the classic film 'Kramer vs. Kramer' in its poignant depiction of the end of a marriage. While the couple initially sought an amicable divorce, the presence of lawyers ignites long-simmering resentments and misunderstandings, leading to a painful and detailed portrayal of their escalating conflict. A key difference from 'Kramer vs. Kramer' is that both characters are actively pursuing successful careers as a theater director and an actress, respectively. The complexities arising from career choices, in addition to concerns about their child, lend a distinctly modern feel to the narrative. Their arguments, fueled by professional pride and a mix of love, hate, and jealousy, are suffocatingly intense. Yet, the film delicately suggests that the end of one relationship can be the beginning of another, and that love doesn't simply vanish. It's a sincere exploration of relationships, not just divorce.

This lineup alone demonstrates the exceptional quality of these productions. Netflix has undeniably become a regular contender at the Academy Awards.

On April 24th, Netflix will release its new original film, 'Extraction,' starring Chris Hemsworth, known for his role as Thor in Marvel's 'Thor' and 'Avengers' series. Hemsworth plays a mercenary on a mission to rescue the kidnapped son of a drug lord in Bangladesh. The action-adventure film evolves into a battle against his own past. It's recommended for those seeking an exhilarating escape during this extended period at home.

There's no denying that the ultimate cinematic experience is watching a film on a large screen, undisturbed, in a theater. That moment when the lights dim just before the screening, and anticipation reaches its peak, is truly irreplaceable. However, there's a different kind of joy in watching a movie from the comfort of your favorite sofa, perhaps with a glass of wine and some cheese. This is a time to appreciate that pleasure. By continuing to enjoy new releases readily available in our living rooms, we can navigate this period of self-isolation.

June MAKIGUCHI
After working at Kyodo News, a film festival secretariat, and as a magazine editor, she became an independent writer. She currently contributes film columns and interviews to women's and men's magazines, focusing on lifestyle aspects such as fashion, food, and music within cinema.