What is The Rickshaw Man?
The Rickshaw Man (1958) is a Japanese drama‑comedy film about a poor rickshaw driver who steps in to help a young widow and her son after the husband’s sudden death. Released in the United States in 1960, the black‑and‑white picture runs about 1 hour and 43 minutes and blends tender family moments with modest humor.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1958
- Release date
- Apr 21, 1958
- Genres
- Drama, Comedy
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 7.2/10
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Find the trailer on YouTube ↗Overview
The Rickshaw Man (1958) is a Japanese drama‑comedy film about a poor rickshaw driver who steps in to help a young widow and her son after the husband’s sudden death. Released in the United States in 1960, the black‑and‑white picture runs about 1 hour and 43 minutes and blends tender family moments with modest humor.
Culturally, the film revisits a story first told in a 1943 version starring Tsumasaburo Bando, reflecting post‑war Japanese society’s themes of duty and compassion. A digitally remastered 83‑minute edition was issued in Tokyo in October 2020, preserving its measured pacing and gentle tone for contemporary audiences.
Should you watch it?
“A humble rickshaw driver becomes a guardian for a widow and her child.”
- Provides an evocative glimpse of post‑war Japanese life.
- Balances heartfelt drama with subtle humor.
- A concise 1h 43m runtime makes it an easy watch.
- The black‑and‑white presentation may deter viewers accustomed to color films.
Watch it if you appreciate understated period dramas about ordinary heroes.
A gently humorous yet heartfelt drama with measured pacing, suitable for mature viewers.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I stream "The Rickshaw Man" (1958)?
Availability varies; check major streaming services or digital rental platforms for the 1958 title.
Is the film worth watching for fans of classic cinema?
Yes, it offers a concise, emotionally resonant story set in post‑war Japan with a blend of drama and comedy.
How long is the film?
The runtime is approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes.
Is there a restored version of the film?
A digitally remastered 83‑minute version was released in Tokyo in October 2020.
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