“Lost in Translation,” which is up for four Oscars, tells the story of a young woman and a middle-aged actor finding an unexpected bond while visiting Tokyo. The young woman in question is played superbly by Scarlett Johansson, who consistently plays older women (she’s 18 playing a 20-something) due to her uncanny maturity and approachable-yet-extraordinary beauty.
While other actresses packed on the pounds (Charlize Theron), forwent makeup (Naomi Watts) or tore into juicy comedic roles (Renee Zellwegger), Johansson was left with the difficult task of showing the underlying pain and insecurity of a young woman searching for her purpose in life without resorting to angry explosions or tearful breakdowns. Instead, Johansson holds her own alongside Bill Murray through the use of subtle glances and dry wit.
While Murray is deservedly up for Best Actor, Johansson’s name is sadly missing from the Best Actress nominee list. Her role in “Translation” is the kind that actually complements the lead, offering counterpoints and remaining visible without taking center stage. Johansson is less dynamite in the role and more like a slow-burning fire, not as noticeable as other scene-stealing supporting roles, but every bit as affecting.
