I think if I was Japanese, I might be offended by the film. As opposed to embracing another culture the Americans in the film choose to expand upon and exploit the differences. The "L" to "R" sounding, the one filming staff unaware of western culture except for Sinatra and the Rat Pack, The "Johnny Carson" of Japan - were all humorous - but at whose expense? It's as bad as the "No ticky, no laundry " gag for people of Chinese persuasion.  Murray's character (Bob Harris) - a family man with no moral backbone - casually sleeps with one girl while on a work holiday, and continues to court another - all the while conversing with his children and wife of 25 years back in the States through phone and fax. My emotional responses towards him were indiscernible, even by myself. Total indifference. I couldn't care less about this chap. In typical Hollywood style the protagonist was not an "every man" but a celebrity of some stature - constantly being recognized in public. My, my... aren't celebrities all the rage though. Yes, they are so wonderful. We just love to forgive/forget their frequent indiscretions.

I agree with my friend Nick Wrigley who also found the constant music in the soundtrack simply a distraction from the poor dialogue and script (character development). Yes, the GOD SAVE THE QUEEN karaoke song was unnecessary. The entire film, although with an interesting premise, was dead, dull, and flat. I honestly think I watch better films every week. out of