Only Yesterday

Director: Isao Takahata

Plot: Middle aged office worker Taeko leaves the busy city of Tokyo to travel to the rural countryside for a vacation and to help locals farm. Whilst traveling she begins to reminiscing about her childhood in Tokyo.

Review: Being based on a manga comic, Isao Takahata delivers a fine drama which is also most like to movies edited together. Unlike many of Studio Ghibli’s other work this movie involves no elements of Fantasy what-so-ever, well there is one shot where the ten year old Taeko is so happy “she’s walking on air”, but that’s just to emphasize her mood rather than saying she’s a fairy or summit.

One of the main characters Taeko is introduced to is local farmer Toshio who is really similar to Taeko. He gave up his busy city life to become a farmer in the countryside. Both are around the same age and lived similar childhoods, almost like the best friend she never had.

The movie tackles many stages that every child goes through, learning about their bodies, wanting to become famous, getting on the wrong side of their parents and being a typical little brat.

I don’t think of this movie as one the best Studio Ghibli flicks you’d find, but it’s certainly a refreshing change from their much loved fantasy genres. I enjoyed the movie; it was very subtle and relaxed. You could just enjoy the film from the comfort of your couch or from the coziness of your duvet. Enjoy!

Rating: 6.9 out of 10.0