In one′s ordinary life, absurdity and madness are always latent, seeking a moment to burst out. This informs Kiyoshi Kurosawa′s idea of ′abnormality in everyday life′. With its theme of ′eternal love′, Barren Illusion portrays the nature of love in Kurosawa′s conception, differing from most other love stories which result either in fulfillment of sexual desire or in conformity to a familial institution. The temporal setting of the film is the year 2005, when the thrill and excitement of the brand new millenium have all vanished. People of various national backgrounds live together, and pollen covers the sky, making it hard for people to even go outside. Haru and Michi are lovers who are growing bored with each other. Out of the anxiety and nervousness that they feel about their now- fragile relationship, they volunteer in a test program for a new anti-pollen drug, although they know that the test could potentially cause impotence. As they refuse to authorize the institutions of reproduction and marriage as the only guarantees of eternal love, for them love is nothing but a misfortune that tosses them to and fro. Even though they suffer from anxiety, they keep longing for a stable world that can secure eternal love. The contemplative monologue-like dialogues lead us to dream of a love that no one has ever experienced. In a world where extreme individualism prevails, a love story like this feels insecure but essential, even if it is just another illusion. (Shion Yang)