Tokyo Monogatari (1953) Tokyo Story

Directed by Yasujiro Ozu

Starring Chishu Ryu, Chieko Higashiyama, Setsuko Hara

Rated by many as Ozus best, again the simple plotline belies the depth of this film but it is without a doubt a classic in every sense of the word.

None of his other films touch on the change and division of old and new Japan quite so profoundly as this one. Shukishi together with his wife Tomi travel from their hometown to visit their middle class offspring in Tokyo, the problem is none of them have (or want to make) the time for them, they are too busy with their careers and lives to spare the time to show them the sights. Luckily their widowed daughter in law, Noriko makes time for them until their children pack them off to the hot springs. 

After returning to Tokyo they decide to head back to their hometown only for tragedy to strike, even then the eldest son and his wife cannot wait to get back to their busy lives in Tokyo. 

Ozu was reflecting on the changing attitudes and way of life in Japanese society, the difference between the old couple and their children reflected changes happening everywhere. Modernisation, the hustle and bustle of City life and materialism all had an adverse affect on the family unit and is a problem that has affected most societies, certainly in the 20th Century. These changes are reluctantly accepted with an air of resignation in the film, things change and whether for better or worse there is little (if anything) that can be done about it.

Overall, quite a melancholic film but one that doesn't hold even a touch of bitterness or anger, simply a highly recommended classic. 

Cheers Trev.

BBFC rated PG