The Year of My Japanese Cousin

with Selene Vigil, Janis Tanaka, Jasper Streak
Written and directed by Maria Gargiulo (Michi Pictures, 1995)
by J. Lianna Ness

Stevie (Selene Vigil) is the ambitious singer for a struggling Seattle rock band. When her Japanese cousin, Ukari (Janis Tanaka), arrives unannounced at a gig one night, Steve is thrilled, basking in her role as rock ‘n’ roll mentor. But Ukari is an accomplished musician herself, having attended a prestigious music school in Japan. When she displays an incredible talent for guitar playing, Stevie invites her to join the band when the guitar player quits. Soon, Ukari starts getting all the attention and Stevie becomes bitter and angry. The plot is eerily similar to Georgia (relatives become musical rivals), but the music is much better. Alternative music fans may recognize Selene Vigil as the vocalist for 7 Year Bitch, who contribute a few songs to the soundtrack which also includes The Fastbacks, the Deflowers, Supersnazz, and Gas Huffer (who have a cameo in the movie). But regardless of musical preference, everyone will be able to relate to this film’s familiar themes.