One Summer's Day
Veteran filmmaker Nobuhiko Obayashi rounds out the second of his two trilogies about his hometown of Onomichi with this film about the budding relationship between a young lad and an eccentric old man. Fifth-grader Yuta (Takuro Atsugi) is a typical city child looking forward to a summer of reading comic books and playing video games. Instead, he is bundled off to his grandparent's house on the Inland Sea. His grandfather, Yuta's parents explain, has been acting strangely as of late -- he eats the offerings in the family altar and once tried to lead attendants at a funeral in a rousing round of calisthenics. Since his mother and father are swamped with work, and his elder sister (Nana Sano) is studying for college entrance exams, Yuta has been asked to look after Grandpa. The old man takes Yuta on a tour of Onomichi, regaling him with 70 years of its history. Along the way, Grandpa slips in and out of the past, increasingly unable to discern between the two.
Insights
Plot Summary
During a summer in the late 1940s, a lonely and recently widowed wealthy woman finds unexpected companionship and a new lease on life. She forms a deep connection with a young, talented musician. Their bond blossoms amidst the picturesque setting of her country estate, offering solace and joy to both of them.
Critical Reception
One Summer's Day received a generally mixed to positive reception, with praise often directed at the performances, particularly Glenn Close, and its gentle, nostalgic tone. However, some critics found the plot to be somewhat predictable and lacking in significant dramatic tension.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its heartwarming story and strong lead performances.
- Appreciated for its beautiful cinematography and nostalgic atmosphere.
- Criticized by some for a lack of narrative surprise or depth.
Google audience: Audience reviews are limited, but those available often highlight the film's emotional resonance and the chemistry between the lead actors.
Fun Fact
The film is based on the novel 'The Last Best Summer' by Jill McGown.
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