What is Early Summer?
Early Summer is a 1951 Japanese drama film directed and co-written by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Setsuko Hara alongside Shūji Sano, Chikage Awashima, Chishū Ryū, Kuniko Miyake, and Haruko Sugimura. The story is set in postwar Tokyo, where Noriko lives with her extended family while balancing her career, social life, and mounting pressure to marry.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1951
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 125 minutes
- Release date
- Oct 3, 1951
- Studios
- Shochiku, Shochiku Ofuna Film Studio
- Genres
- Drama
- Updated
Trailer
Overview
Early Summer is a 1951 Japanese drama film directed and co-written by Yasujirō Ozu, starring Setsuko Hara alongside Shūji Sano, Chikage Awashima, Chishū Ryū, Kuniko Miyake, and Haruko Sugimura. The story is set in postwar Tokyo, where Noriko lives with her extended family while balancing her career, social life, and mounting pressure to marry.
Culturally significant as a classic work by Ozu, the film captures the nuances of Japanese family life and societal expectations during a changing era. The tone is reflective and dramatic, delivered through a deliberate and steady cinematic pace that focuses deeply on character relationships and personal dilemmas.
Should you watch it?
“A working woman in postwar Tokyo faces family pressure to marry while her heart pulls elsewhere.”
- Directed and co-written by acclaimed filmmaker Yasujirō Ozu.
- Features a talented cast including Setsuko Hara and Chishū Ryū.
- Explores compelling themes of tradition and personal choice in 1951 Japan.
- Viewers seeking fast-paced modern action may find the drama too slow.
Watch it if you appreciate classic international cinema focusing on intimate family relationships.
The film maintains a traditional dramatic tone and deliberate pacing suitable for classic cinema enthusiasts.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I stream Early Summer?
Streaming availability can be checked on major film platforms, as the film is listed on movie databases with streaming options.
Is Early Summer worth watching?
Yes, it is a celebrated 1951 drama directed by Yasujirō Ozu and starring notable classic Japanese actors.
What is the runtime or binge duration?
The film has a runtime of 2 hours and 5 minutes.
How many essential episodes are there?
Early Summer is a feature-length film rather than a series, so it consists of a single complete viewing experience.
Explore Early Summer
Where to watch Similar movies More from ShochikuMore from Shochiku Ofuna Film Studio
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