Lost in Translation

Coppola's pitch-perfect moody dramedy of mannerisms and loneliness stars Murray as Bob, a washed-up action star in Japan to shoot a lucrative liquor commercial. Homesick, displaced and jet-lagged, Bob heads to the hotel bar and meets fellow Yank Charlotte (Johansson). Also married and lonely, Charlotte is accompanying her photographer husband (Ribisi), whose glamorous job takes him away to far-flung locations and beautiful people that she can't understand. Despite their age difference, the two bond over cocktails and karaoke (a memorable scene), discussing the difficulties of marriage and life while steering clear of the formulaic May/December romance trappings. Murray's restrained performance speaks volumes, conveying a weary acceptance of his life. Johansson deftly displays a suitably discontented air.