When directors make a big splash in their debut films, its always interesting to see how they follow up the impressive start. Some directors never match that first impression, while others follow up the success and springboard to a long career in film.After seeing writer-director Sophia Coppolas second film, Lost in Translation, it is apparent that this is one talented young filmmaker. Like her debut film, The Virgin Suicides, Coppola creates a beautiful-looking film with depth and texture, along with a couple of outstanding performances from its lead actors, Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson.Murray plays Bob, an American movie star in Tokyo shooting liquor ads. Bob meets Charlotte, a young American in Tokyo with her photographer husband (Giovanni Ribisi).Bob and Charlotte are each at a crossroads in life. Bob doesnt like what hes become, while Charlotte isnt really sure what she wants to do. Both are stuck in lonely relationships.When Bob and Charlotte meet, something clicks. They understand each others loneliness and develop a relationship that spawns a deep affection for each other.The film works because Coppolas screenplay never gives in to the obvious and allows these characters to connect without resorting to a sexual relationship. The script understands that this relationship is about more than just sex, and allows the characters to develop in a realistic manner. Murray and Johansson have great chemistry and both deserve Oscar consideration. Murrays performance is filled with lots of subtle laughter, with the underlying pain and despair packed elegantly below the surface.Johansson was very good in Ghostworld, but is even better here. She perfectly captures a character wise beyond her years, lost in the quest to find out who she really is. As in The Virgin Suicides, Coppola trusts her actors but adds depth with her vision as a director. The beautiful Tokyo setting is an ideal place for two people lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Coppolas whirlwind direction only adds to that emptiness, brilliantly creating the mood needed to make Lost in Translation work.While the film does feature some deeper moments, there is a perfect mix of humor that only adds to the films charm. This isnt Murray trying to be serious a la The Razors Edge, but more like Johanssons Ghostworld, a film that understood how to be humorous while capturing the pains of normalcy.Coppola took a lot of criticism when she appeared in her fathers film The Godfather III in 1990. Sure, you can question her ability as an actress, but after two films its obvious that her ability as a filmmaker cannot be dismissed. This is a star on the rise, with a promising future ahead of her. Lost in Translation is the latest in sportswriter/movie reviewer Micheal Comptons trend of loving movies that have been heavily promoted on Late Night with Conan OBrien… has anyone else noticed this? If so, or to comment on the reviews, e-mail Micheal at mcompton@bgdailynews.com.