The Third Murder (2017)

This is something of a departure for Koreeda. Though there are some family dynamics here (father-son, father-daughter), they are not the focus of the movie. In fact, the introduction of some of these familial relations seem rather irrelevant. Instead this is a legal thriller. The themes raise grand questions about justice. The answers aren't apparent. But Koreeda does a good job at mystifying the truth. While the movie doesn't pack the same emotional punch as his family dramas, his writing is still careful and deliberate. And the mise en scene is still striking. I'm a fan of reflections in the glass.

Our Little Sister (Umimachi Diary) (2015)

Hirokazu Koreeda is the master of family dramas. He makes you smile, makes you cry, and makes you do both simultaneously. He chooses his words carefully, his dialogue so carefully scripted. His movies are delicate and quiet. He makes beautiful, life affirming movies. Our Little Sister is no different. Three adult sisters take in their younger stepsister to live with them following the death of their estranged father. The sisters have such great chemistry on screen. It makes you want to be a part of their family. It's a movie with a simple premise that just works. It's not his best work (it's a high bar) but it is a fantastic movie nonetheless.