Review of Early Summer (1951) by Ron P — 18 Jun 2011

EARLY SUMMER is directed with tenderness by Yasujiro Ozu. It's a quiet family drama that has characters we can relate to and care for. It doesn't matter if one wasn't alive in the early 50's or if you are even japanese.

The themes here are universal. The central character of the film is Noriko. She is a modern woman. She holds a job, goes out with friends and speaks her mind. Her family is concerned about her marriage and soon they find what they think is a perfect match.

Her family and friends think they know whats best for her and but we soon find out that no one understands what she wants and needs better than herself. She clashes with her family over her decisions.

Her parents state how her way of thinking is something they cannot understand. The clash of the old with the new is never a harsh one in this film. The elder members of the family are content with life as it is and don't ask for too much.

The younger ones respect them but they must move forward as everything else in life does. The film slowly builds with each scene creating a very touching portrait of this family. Each little detail of ordinary, everyday living is beautifully shot.

There's lots of memorable moments and I especially loved all the performances. Setsuko Hara as Noriko is wonderful. She brings alot of subtle touches to her performance that will surely reward with each viewing of the film.

Overall, it's a beautiful film about life and family that has universal appeal.