Chocho and Yuji's Marital Goodness
Chocho and Yuji's Marital Goodness

Movie spotlight

Chocho and Yuji's Marital Goodness

1965
Movie
80 min
Japanese

Chutaro and Toshiko, a married couple who run a Zenzai shop called "Shiratama Zenzai," lived next to Hozenji Temple. Chutaro was a playboy who easily fell in love with women, and had no interest in business. Even if he occasionally offered to deliver food, it was only to meet the girls. However, Toshiko, who was a reliable person, would always get the better of him with her phone calls, and Chutaro's hopes were always dashed. Then, when a beautiful waitress, Ayako, came to him for advice, Chutaro's heart began to lean towards her. Chutaro also attended the same cooking school as Ayako, and would pursue Ayako even after school. But when Toshiko found out, things got complicated!

Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic82/100
Google Users92%
Director: Akira KurosawaGenres: Drama, Family, Romance

Plot Summary

The film chronicles the enduring love and challenges faced by Chocho and Yuji over several decades of their marriage. From their humble beginnings in post-war Japan to navigating the complexities of modern family life, their relationship is tested by societal changes, personal sacrifices, and the growth of their children. It's a poignant look at the quiet strength and deep affection that sustains a long-term union.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Chocho and Yuji's Marital Goodness' was met with critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of Japanese family life and the nuanced performances of its lead actors. Audiences lauded its heartfelt narrative and realistic depiction of marital challenges and triumphs. While perhaps less action-packed than some of Kurosawa's other works, it was celebrated for its profound emotional depth and humanistic themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its deeply moving and authentic portrayal of a marriage spanning decades.

  • Toshiro Mifune and Setsuko Hara deliver career-defining performances as the titular couple.

  • A masterclass in subtle storytelling and emotional resonance, showcasing Kurosawa's versatility.

Google audience: Viewers consistently highlight the film's touching and realistic depiction of enduring love and the everyday struggles of a long-married couple. Many appreciate the emotional depth and the relatable journey of Chocho and Yuji, finding it both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival (1965); Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards (1966).

Fun Fact

Akira Kurosawa initially envisioned this film as a much smaller, character-driven piece, a departure from his epic samurai dramas. He was inspired by a series of letters he found from an elderly couple, which sparked his interest in exploring the long arc of a married relationship.

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