Kani Releasing has unveiled the official US trailer for Desert of Namibia, a striking Japanese indie film directed by Yoko Yamanaka. The film, which had its world premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival as part of the prestigious Directors’ Fortnight sidebar, is set to hit select art house theaters across the United States in May 2025, nearly a year after its debut.
Desert of Namibia tells the story of Satsuki (played by Yumi Kawai), a 21-year-old who rejects societal expectations, frequently changing boyfriends and showing little concern for career or social norms. Her unpredictable behavior leads to a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder as she struggles to find her place in a rigid, patriarchal society. Kawai’s portrayal of Satsuki has drawn comparisons to Gena Rowlands’ iconic role in A Woman Under the Influence, capturing the emotional depth and vulnerability of a woman at war with both herself and the world around her.
The film’s style is described as a slow-burn, ultra-melancholic slapstick comedy, blending moments of dark humor with visceral emotional intensity. One review describes the film as a “fantasy film without monsters or ghosts—except that it may be populated by monsters and ghosts of a different, more everyday nature.” Critics have praised Yamanaka’s ability to capture the chaos and confusion of a young woman caught between self-doubt and societal pressure.
In addition to Kawai, the film features an ensemble cast including Keisuke Horibe, Daichi Kaneko, Kanichiro, Yuzumi Shintani, Makiko Watanabe, and Erika Karata.
Directed and written by Yoko Yamanaka, Desert of Namibia marks the filmmaker’s second feature film after her debut with Amiko. Following its Cannes premiere, the film will be screened at select US theaters, starting with Metrograph in New York City on May 16, 2025.
Desert of Namibia is a must-see for those interested in innovative and thought-provoking cinema.
