this was a cute movie, heartwarming. i found myself more intrigued with how perverse english is in this film, from the private written on the office door to the climax of the film with the main character going off to teach english. not knowing much about pre-WWII japan, i thought this was interesting, knowing ozu’s reputation for being one of the most japanese directors in history. i guess it never occurred to me how widespread the language had already become.
in general i enjoyed this simply as a period piece, educational, both in the movie itself and in the way it was presented, the context. it was very lifelike though, with drama sprinkled in with comedy, long shots revealing people’s inner turmoil becoming resolved right before our very eyes. the children were little turds, and the baby was adorable.
i dunno, i dont know how to recommend this, 1930s silent japanese film, but it really is a charming little movie.

oh, and the gym teacher. brilliant.