Synopsis
Naoko-Winning Runners is Director Tomoyuki FURUMAYA's screen rendition of the same-titled long-running manga, starring Haruma MIURA (Yuske) and Juri UENO (Naoko). Young Naoko, vacationing at a fishing site with her parents, is rescued by Yuske's father Kenta from a drowning accident. She makes it but Kenta doesn't, which traumatizes Yuske. Years later, Naoko, now in high school, accidentally reunites with Yuske. To help heal his, and her own, trauma, she joins him in his marathon squad. As both participate in intensive summer program to train for upcoming tournament, their relationship starts to thaw. A virtuoso portrayer of young psyche, FURUMAYA delves deep into the inner world of the characters, delicately imparting their transformations. Attractions of the film include young athletes training for tournament amidst summer heat, street scenes, character-building of individual players, final match with competitors, and relationships reverberating with humanity. Testimonial to fine directorial work and solid performances. (KWON Yong Min)