Another masterful Murakami novel that you can simply immerse yourself in. Props also to the translator, Jay Rubin, who conveys the Japanese atmosphere well. The novel isn't perfect, but fulfilling.
A decent watch starring Paul Giamatti but worth watching mainly for the Greco-Roman wrestler, Alex Shaffer who steals the show. The plot is interesting enough and holds together for 3/4 of the movie. However, the remaining 1/4 is pretty poor acting-wise, direction-wise and plot-wise.
Still worth a watch though.
The setting was good, the music was classical, and the acting was mostly well above par. However, the script was lacking, the characters lacked depth, and the plot hurried along too quickly towards a very abrupt end. It was enjoyably different. Unfortunately, I do not expect it to be memorable.
