Ōhinata-mura
Ōhinata-mura

Movie spotlight

Ōhinata-mura

1940
Movie
84 min
Japanese

The year is 1936. Ōhinata-mura was a very poor village between deep valleys. Soncho, the village head is trying to collect the village taxes from the villagers but he knows full well that no one can afford to pay the village tax which has been unpaid for years...

Insights

Director: Iwao KonoGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In a rural Japanese village, a young woman named Setsuko navigates the complexities of tradition and modernity. She finds herself caught between a devoted suitor and the expectations of her family, all while the village grapples with the changing times. The film explores themes of love, duty, and societal pressures in pre-war Japan.

Critical Reception

Ōhinata-mura was a significant film in Japanese cinema of the era, praised for its sensitive portrayal of rural life and its strong performances, particularly from Kinuyo Tanaka. It offered a nuanced look at the lives of ordinary people amidst societal shifts.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its poignant depiction of village life and human relationships.

  • Kinuyo Tanaka's performance was highlighted as a standout element.

  • The film offers a valuable glimpse into Japanese society during a pivotal period.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

Kinuyo Tanaka, who plays the lead role, went on to become one of Japan's most celebrated actresses and later a groundbreaking female director.

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