Snow Falling on Cedars
Snow Falling on Cedars

Snow Falling on Cedars

1999Movie127 minEnglish

In the 1950s, a Japanese-American fisherman is suspected of killing his neighbour at sea. For Ishmael, a local reporter, the trial strikes a deep emotional chord when he finds his ex-lover is linked to the case. As he investigates the killing, he uncovers some startling clues that lead him to a shocking discovery.

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Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes63%
Metacritic62/100
Google Users75%
Director: Scott HicksGenres: Drama, Mystery, Romance

Plot Summary

In 1954, a Japanese-American fisherman is accused of murdering a fellow islander, with his wife the star witness against him. A reporter, haunted by his own past, returns to his hometown to cover the trial. As he delves into the case, he uncovers a complex web of love, prejudice, and long-buried secrets that connect the accused man, his wife, and the victim. The trial forces the community to confront its own history of racial tensions and the tragic events that shaped their lives.

Critical Reception

Snow Falling on Cedars was met with generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its lush cinematography, powerful performances, and atmospheric storytelling. However, some found the narrative structure somewhat convoluted and the pacing deliberate. Audiences were also divided, with many appreciating the film's emotional depth and visual beauty, while others found it melancholic and slow.

What Reviewers Say

  • Visually stunning with a captivating atmosphere and strong performances.
  • The film effectively explores themes of prejudice, love, and the weight of the past.
  • Some critics found the plot intricate and the pacing a bit too slow.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's beautiful cinematography and emotional resonance, with many highlighting the compelling performances and the exploration of complex themes. Some viewers found the story to be a bit somber and slow-moving.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Cinematography. Also received nominations from the Golden Globes and BAFTA Awards.

Fun Fact

The film's distinctive look and atmosphere were heavily influenced by the novel's acclaimed prose, with director Scott Hicks aiming to translate the sensory details and emotional tone of David Guterson's novel onto the screen.

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