Fascinating look at Westernized Japan in the early 1930s, this is a touching drama of mother love and of a child's love.
This motion picture is quite possibly alien to most United Statesians who likely haven't seen many silent Japanese movies. Japan was much later in adapting to sound than, for example, Hollywood, which began the switch about 1929, and this movie is dated 1932.
"Nasanunaka" is carried by beautiful acting, even by the youngest members of the cast. It is, though, at least slightly marred by some sloppy camera work. Zooms and pans are often jerky and out of focus.
Though the directing is sometimes brilliant, too often there is camera movement that is out of place. For example, there are far too many zooms or forward movements for purposes of showing drama.
Never mind: The story is both touching and dramatic, the acting is nearly impeccable, and all the characters, even if not likable or admirable, are more than interesting.
I cannot over-emphasize how much I like and admire this movie, and I strongly urge everyone to watch. It was shown on TCM Sunday night/Monday morning -- depending on time zone --15 and 16 May 2022. If you get lucky, you might find it online or in a library. I hope you can find it.
