Isao Takahata's "ONLY YESTERDAY"

Movie review by Dennis D. McDonald

Taeko, a 27 year old “office lady” working in Tokyo takes a vacation in the country. On the train trip there memories flood back of her family and school life when she was in the fifth grade. Once in the country she falls into the day to day rhythm of farm life, the hard work that requires, and renewal of extended family relationships that provide insight into what she really wants to do with her life.

The juxtaposition of Taeko’s current life on the farm and the vivid memories of her pre-adolescent self are masterfully intermeshed. All of this happens with a background of stunningly depicted scenes of nature and highly nuanced character designs.

The movie is episodic in nature. Its ample focus on the fifth grader’s family and school activities are simultaneously distant yet immediately recognizable as universally human.

The adjective often applied to the Studio Ghibli’s films is “heartfelt.” I have to agree. Some very deep family and personal issues are surfaced here. Their portrayal is intelligent, honest, and ultimately, very moving.

Highly recommended.

Review copyright (c) 2021 by Dennis D. McDonald

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