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
Yuri Kinugawa as Sayo
Eugene Nomura as Keiji
Yoko Narahashi as Mrs. Nakajima
Joel Tobeck as Nod
Rome Kanda as Tour Guide
Production
The film was shot in New Zealand, at Studio West in West Auckland.