Busan Competition Film 'Between Two Lovers' Tackles Polyamory but Pulls Its Punches
Nanako Hirose's second feature, 'Between Two Lovers,' follows a Japanese children's author who proposes a three-way relationship with her husband and her secret girlfriend when both want to start a family. Starring Masami Nagasawa, the film uses polyamory and same-sex parenting to examine a conservative society. Variety's review says the premise is daring but the narrative ultimately makes compromises that may leave progressive viewers frustrated.
Nanako Hirose’s “Between Two Lovers” is her second feature and comes from a filmmaker described as a protégé of Hirokazu Kore-eda. It debuted in Competition at the Busan International Film Festival. Masami Nagasawa leads as a children’s author who is adulterous and uneasy about becoming a mother.
The plot brings her husband and the girlfriend she has kept hidden into a three-way arrangement after both say they want a child. The film uses polyamory and same-sex parenting to explore contemporary Japan. Variety’s Guy Lodge found the setup daring but said later compromises may disappoint viewers seeking progressive stories.
The film may prompt discussion in Japan and abroad about non-traditional family structures, same-sex parenting, and polyamory. Audiences who rarely see such arrangements on screen could feel seen, while conservative viewers may resist. Its compromises might soften debate or frustrate advocates hoping for bolder representation. Festival exposure and Nagasawa's profile could widen conversation, but impact likely depends on distribution and reception.