Memory & Desire is a 1998 New Zealand romantic drama film written and directed by Niki Caro, in her feature film directorial debut. The film is based on the 1997 short story "Of Memory and Desire" by Peter Wells.

Plot

Sayo and Keiji are a Japanese couple who elope to New Zealand to get married. On their honeymoon, frustrated by being unable to consummate their marriage, Keiji fatally drowns in a swimming accident. Heartbroken after losing her husband, Sayo contemplates traveling back to Japan to once again live with her domineering mother, per Japanese tradition. Instead, she stays in New Zealand on the beach where Keiji drowned to find peace.

Cast

Production

The film was shot in New Zealand, at Studio West in West Auckland.

Awards and nominations

GroupCategoryRecipientResult
1998 Cannes Film FestivalCaméra d'OrNiki CaroNominated
1998 Stockholm International Film FestivalBronze HorseNiki CaroNominated
1998 Stockholm International Film FestivalBest actressYuri KinugawaWon
1999 New Zealand Film and TV AwardsBest FilmOwen HughesWon
Best Foreign PerformerYuri KinugawaWon
Best DesignGrant MajorWon
Special Jury PrizeNiki CaroWon

External links