“Only Yesterday 1991” is a poignant and introspective film about a woman’s journey of self-discovery. Through flashbacks, we see her childhood memories as vibrant and colorful as a blooming garden, while her adult life is cast in shades of gray. With humor and heart, the film explores themes of nostalgia, regret, and the search for meaning. It is a beautiful reminder that sometimes to move forward, we need to look back.
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Review
It was a typical February morning in the year 1991 when this author stepped out of his apartment in East London to watch the newly released movie, “Only Yesterday”. Produced by Studio Ghibli, an animation house that had already gained a reputation for their brilliant work, there was much expectation surrounding this film. Directed by Isao Takahata and written by Hotaru Okamoto and Yuko Tone, it captured the audience’s attention with its realistic portrayal of life in Japan during the late 1960s.
The plot revolves around a woman named Taeko Okajima, who works as an office lady in Tokyo. She decides to take her annual vacation to her sister’s farm in rural Yamagata Prefecture. The film draws its power from its manner of storytelling that moves backward and forwards between Taeko’s past and present self seamlessly.
The character of Taeko is well-etched and leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. Voiced by Miki Imai, she perfectly captures the essence of a woman struggling with her past traumas and trying to make sense of them as an adult. Her voice acting is subtle yet powerful, drawing empathy from audiences as they understand her struggles.
Casts such as Masako Sugaya voiced Yaeko Okajima (Taeko’s mother), Chie Kitagawa voiced Mrs Toshio (Taeko’s childhood friend) and Toshirô Yanagiba voiced Toshio(knowing Taeko at the farm) also did justice to their roles.
The film shows how memories have a way of coming back to haunt us like ghosts. In one scene, after being transported back to her childhood school days through memory triggered flashbacks while riding on a train, she realizes how much she had grown since then and remarks “But suddenly I feel so nostalgic.”
“Only Yesterday” also explores themes such as gender inequality and societal pressure imposed on women during that era. It portrays the challenges women faced in balancing career and personal lives, and how their dreams were often thwarted.
The movie’s score is another aspect that stands out. Composed by Katz Hoshi, its mellow tones complement the narrative well. The melancholic soundtrack adds to the emotional punch of the film, leaving viewers in tears.
Critics appreciated the film for its originality, realistic portrayal of life in Japan’s countryside during the late 1960s while highlighting human emotions sensitively. However, this was not without controversy; some believed that it was too slow-paced and lacked action.
Despite this criticism, “Only Yesterday” won many accolades, including The Mainichi Film Award for Best Animated Film and Kinema Junpo Award (Animation) for Best Film. It was also nominated in the category of Best Animated Feature at The Annie Awards.
The cinematography deserves a special mention as well. The vivid colors used to portray Taeko’s memories convey emotions so beautifully that it is hard not to get drawn into them. The detailed animation style employed by Studio Ghibli carries an individual charm and character which sets them apart.
In conclusion, “Only Yesterday” is an emotionally engaging film that moved audiences around the world with its relatable characters and captivating storyline. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, those who appreciate thoughtful storytelling and beautiful animation will undoubtedly find it incredibly appealing. It shows us how our past experiences shape us who we are today and reminds us that nostalgia can be both joyous and sorrowful. As someone once said: “The most powerful nostalgia is always for a time before we were born.”
Technical Data
- Runtime : 119
- Release : 1991-07-20
- Genre : Animation, Drama, Romance
- Cast : Miki Imai as Taeko Okajima (voice), Toshiro Yanagiba as Toshio (voice), Yoko Honna as Taeko (voice), Mayumi Iizuka as Tsuneko Tani (voice), Masahiro Itou as Father (voice)
- Crew : Hayao Miyazaki as Executive Producer, Isao Takahata as Director, Isao Takahata as Writer, Toshio Suzuki as Producer, Takeshi Seyama as Editor
- Popularity 22.845
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : $473,110
- Company : Studio Ghibli, Studio Fuga
- Summary : On a trip to the countryside to pick safflowers, a young Japanese woman recalls her life when she was ten years old.
- Tagline : I’m going on a trip with Me.
