All 51 Yasujiro Ozu Movies
Step into the world of Yasujiro Ozu’s cinematic masterpieces, as we present a captivating roundup of his most iconic films. Dive deep into the heart of Ozu’s directorial genius with a blend of intriguing insights and engaging analysis.
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1. Zange no yaiba (1927)
Zange no yaiba, a 1927 Japanese drama, follows Ishimatsu as he struggles to rebuild his life after being released from jail. However, his brother, Sakichi, and his business partners have no intention of letting him move on.
2. I Graduated, But… (1929)
“I Graduated, But. . “ is a 1929 Japanese comedy film directed by Yasujirô Ozu, based on a screenplay by Yoshirô Aramaki and Hiroshi Shimizu. Set in 1929, the film stars Minoru Takada, Kinuyo Tanaka, and Utako Suzuki.
3. Days of Youth (1929)
“Days of Youth, “ also known as “Gakusei romansu: Wakaki hi, “ is a 1929 Japanese comedy film directed by Yasujirô Ozu. The film explores the romantic rivalry between two college students, featuring elements of heterosexuality and humor. The story revolves around two young men competing for the heart of a woman, showcasing the complexities of friendship and love.
4. Introduction to Marriage (1930)
“Introduction to Marriage, “ also known as “Kekkongaku nyûmon, “ is a delightful 1930 comedy film directed by Yasujirô Ozu. Starring Tatsuo Saitô, Sumiko Kurishima, and Shin’yô Nara, this lost film offers a unique perspective on love, marriage, and the complexities of human relationships.
5. Walk Cheerfully (1930)
Directed by the legendary Yasujirô Ozu, “Walk Cheerfully” (1930) is a timeless masterpiece in the crime, drama, and romance genres. The story revolves around a small-time pickpocket named Ryoji (played by Minoru Takada) who longs to reform and woo a good-hearted young woman named Setsuko (Hiroko Kawasaki).
6. The Luck Which Touched the Leg (1930)
“The Luck Which Touched the Leg, “ a 1930 Japanese drama film directed by Yasujirô Ozu, is a compelling tale exploring the complexities of luck and human relationships. While the plot remains elusive, the allure of this lost film lies in its exploration of deep-seated emotions and the human condition.
7. Young Lady (1930)
Experience the wit and charm of Japan’s early cinema with the captivating 1930 comedy, “Young Lady” (Ojôsan). Directed by the iconic Yasujirô Ozu, this 2-hour and 15-minute tale tells the story of a young woman facing challenges in her social and romantic life.
8. Bijin to aishû (1931)
“Bijin to aishû” (1931) revolves around two characters who become enchanted by a renowned sculptor’s latest creation, a beautiful statue of a woman, or ‘bijin, ‘ and its deep connection with the theme of romantic love.
9. The Lady and the Beard (1931)
“The Lady and the Beard” (1931) is a captivating Japanese comedy-romance film directed by Yasujirô Ozu. The story revolves around a unique bearded kendo champion who experiences life challenges due to his conservative lifestyle and distinctive facial hair. The film also delves into the themes of arranged marriage, young adult life, and the unconventional nature of the protagonist.
10. Tokyo Chorus (1931)
Tokyo Chorus, also known as Tôkyô no kôrasu, is a 1931 Japanese film that seamlessly blends comedy and drama. The story focuses on a married man living in Tokyo who faces unemployment after standing up for an older colleague.
11. Until the Day We Meet Again (1932)
“Until the Day We Meet Again, “ also known as “Mata au hi made, “ is a captivating drama film directed by Yasujirô Ozu, released in 1932. The movie stars Yoshiko Okada, Jôji Oka, and Shin’yô Nara, and it’s produced by Shochiku. The runtime for this heartfelt cinematic experience is 1 hour and 43 minutes.
12. Where Now Are the Dreams of Youth? (1932)
In the heart of 1930s Japan, “Where Now Are the Dreams of Youth? “ (Seishun no yume ima izuko) follows the journey of a young man as he inherits a profitable business and chooses to share the wealth with his college friends. Faced with various challenges and opportunities, the film explores themes of friendship, love, and the pursuit of dreams, set against the backdrop of a changing world.
13. I Was Born, But… (1932)
In the heartwarming and poignant Japanese film “I Was Born, But. . “ (1932), two young siblings are brought face to face with uncertainties and complex human emotions. Directed by the legendary Yasujirô Ozu, the movie revolves around the reactions of children when they witness the harsh realities of adult life.
14. Spring Comes from the Ladies (1932)
“Spring Comes from the Ladies, “ directed by the renowned Yasujirô Ozu, takes us on an intimate journey into the lives of a group of women, who navigate the complexities of love, family, and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of 1930s Japan, this lost film delves deep into the emotional complexities of the human experience, making it an intriguing watch for fans of drama and character-driven narratives.
15. Passing Fancy (1933)
“Passing Fancy” is a Japanese drama film from 1933, directed by Yasujirô Ozu and written by Tadao Ikeda and Ozu himself. The movie follows two Tokyo co-workers who stumble upon a destitute young lady seeking shelter. As the two men try to help her, their own lives are intertwined with jealousy and new adult romance.
16. Dragnet Girl (1933)
Dragnet Girl, released in 1933, is a captivating Japanese noir that revolves around the life of a gangster seeking redemption, an innocent shop girl, and a jealous girlfriend determined to keep him. Yasujirô Ozu directs this crime drama with a touch of romance, creating an atmosphere that captivates the audience from the very beginning.
17. A Mother Should Be Loved (1934)
“A Mother Should Be Loved, “ also known as “Haha wo kowazuya, “ is a drama film that offers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and family dynamics. Released in 1934, the movie is directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu and penned by Kôgo Noda, Tadao Ikeda, and Masao Arata.
18. A Story of Floating Weeds (1934)
“A Story of Floating Weeds” is a captivating 1934 silent movie directed by masterful filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu. Originally titled “Ukikusa monogatari, “ this Japanese drama film masterfully weaves a tale of love, rivalry, and betrayal within the kabuki theater world.
19. College is a Nice Place (1935)
In the heart of 1935 Tokyo, a group of young students and recent graduates find themselves entrenched in the challenges of completing their education and securing gainful employment. This coming-of-age tale, directed by the renowned Yasujirô Ozu, promises laughter and tears as we navigate the trials and tribulations of life in college.
20. An Inn in Tokyo (1935)
Delve into a poignant tale of struggle and resilience in “An Inn in Tokyo, “ a heartwarming drama released in 1935. Directed by the illustrious Yasujirô Ozu, this film follows unemployed father Kihachi, played by Takeshi Sakamoto, as he tries to provide for his two sons amidst poverty. Despite their trials and tribulations, the father-son bond remains unbreakable, and Kihachi’s story is one of determination and hope.
21. The Only Son (1936)
“The Only Son” is a poignant and deeply affecting drama from renowned Japanese filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu. Set in Shinshu, Japan, the film tells the story of a widow who sends her only son away to receive a better education. Years later, she returns to visit him, only to find that he has become a poor school teacher with a wife and son of his own. The film masterfully explores the themes of self-sacrifice, maternal love, and the complexities of family relationships against the backdrop of rural Japan in the 1930s. With its elegant direction, superb performances, and unforgettable visuals, “The Only Son” stands as a testament to the enduring power of cinema to move and inspire us.
22. Shukujo wa nani o wasureta ka (1937)
“Shukujo wa nani o wasureta ka, “ directed by Yasujirô Ozu, is a classic film that showcases the intricate and relatable dynamics of a Japanese family. The plot revolves around an affluent medical professor, Komiya, and his wife Tokio, who are tasked with taking care of their spirited niece Setsuko, from Osaka.
23. The Brothers and Sisters of the Toda Family (1941)
The Brothers and Sisters of the Toda Family, a poignant tale set in 1941 Japan, follows the lives of a family reeling from the unexpected demise of their patriarch. As the widow grapples with the burden of debt and indifference from her married children, the only source of comfort is her eldest son, fresh from his return from China. With a touching exploration of family relationships, the story shines a light on the importance of love, loyalty, and unity in the face of hardship.
24. There Was a Father (1942)
“There Was a Father, “ directed by the masterful Yasujirô Ozu, is a poignant and heartwarming drama. Set in the 1940s, schoolteacher Ryudayen (Chishû Ryû) faces the daunting task of raising his son Ryohei (Shûji Sano) on his own, as he is strapped for money and has limited prospects for the future.
25. Record of a Tenement Gentleman (1947)
In a post-war Tokyo, the heartwarming tale of “Record of a Tenement Gentleman” unfolds. The story revolves around Tashiro, a tenant in a rundown tenement housing complex on the city’s outskirts. His life takes an unexpected turn when a young boy, who has been separated from his carpenter father, follows him home.
26. A Hen in the Wind (1948)
Experience the raw emotion of post-World War II Japan in the heart-wrenching drama, “A Hen in the Wind. “ Directed by Yasujirô Ozu and written by Ozu and Ryôsuke Saitô, this 1948 masterpiece explores the desperate measures a mother will take for her child, all while her husband, a war-weary veteran, struggles to come to terms with the harsh realities of his return.
27. Late Spring (1949)
“Late Spring” is a poignant and touching drama directed by Yasujirô Ozu in 1949. Set in Kamakura, Japan, the film follows 27-year-old Noriko, who faces pressure from society to marry, but only wishes to devote her life to caring for her widowed father. As her father’s health begins to fail, the importance of family ties and individual desires in a traditional Japanese culture becomes the heart of the story.
28. Munekata kyôdai (1950)
Munekata Kyôdai, released in 1950, is a timeless drama film directed by acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu. The story revolves around Setsuko, a woman unhappily married to an unemployed and drinking engineer named Mimura. She harbors unrequited love for another man, Hiroshi, who had moved to France years prior and never proposed to her.
29. Early Summer (1951)
In the post-WWII era of Japan, “Early Summer” (1951) delicately unfolds a story that follows a family’s ardent pursuit for a suitable match for their daughter, Noriko. This young woman, however, harbors unexpected plans of her own, shaking the foundation of tradition and expectations. Yasujirô Ozu’s masterful direction, with Kôgo Noda and Yasujirô Ozu’s captivating screenplay, immerses viewers in an emotional journey as the characters navigate through the complexities of love and relationships.
30. The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice (1952)
Experience the evocative tale of “The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice” (1952), a poignant drama that has captivated audiences for decades. Directed by the legendary Yasujirô Ozu, this timeless film follows a middle-aged childless couple as they face a marital crisis.
31. Tokyo Story (1953)
Tokyo Story is a poignant and heartwarming drama directed by Yasujirô Ozu. Released in 1953, the film follows an elderly couple who journey to the city to visit their children and grandchildren. Though they expect the warmth of family, they are met with cold reality as their busy, modern children fail to give them the affection and attention they crave.
32. The Moon Has Risen (1955)
The Moon Has Risen (1955) — A poignant tale of love, comedy, and drama set in post-war Japan. Mokichi, a widowed father of three daughters, lives on the premises of a temple.
33. Bloody Spear at Mount Fuji (1955)
Experience the unforgettable world of “Bloody Spear at Mount Fuji, “ a 1955 masterpiece by director Tomu Uchida. This gripping Adventure/Drama film follows a samurai as he embarks on a journey to Edo with his loyal servants, unveiling a series of encounters with diverse characters and injustices along the way.
34. Early Spring (1956)
Early Spring, also known as Sôshun, is a poignant drama from the heart of Japan, released in 1956 and directed by the legendary Yasujirô Ozu. The film stars Chikage Awashima and Ryô Ikebe as a young couple whose love seems to be waning amidst the rigidity of their lifeless relationship. As the man finds solace in an extramarital affair, the couple’s emotional journey unfolds, creating a gripping tale of passion and betrayal.
35. Tokyo Twilight (1957)
In Yasujirô Ozu’s 1957 drama, Tokyo Twilight (Tôkyô boshoku), the lives of two sisters are forever changed by the discovery of a long-lost mother. Setsuko Hara and Ineko Arima star as the siblings, whose family dynamics take a dramatic turn when they discover their origin.
36. Equinox Flower (1958)
In the 1958 Japanese film “Equinox Flower” (Higanbana), a businessman and his daughter clash over her choice of a husband, setting the stage for a heartwarming and witty tale. As the family grapples with the challenges of modernization, this comedy-drama, masterfully directed by Yasujirô Ozu, explores the complexities of love, tradition, and change.
37. Floating Weeds (1959)
“Floating Weeds, “ directed by renowned filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu, is a captivating 1959 drama film. When the lead character, a head of a Japanese theater troupe, visits a seaside town to reunite with his estranged son, he discovers that his son believes him to be his uncle. The father’s attempt to make up for lost time leads him down a tumultuous path. As he navigates complex relationships and personal dilemmas, his mistress’s growing jealousy adds another layer of tension. Shot with Ozu’s signature nuanced style, this movie presents a compelling narrative of family, love, and personal growth.
38. Good Morning (1959)
“Good Morning” is a heartwarming and quirky 1959 Japanese comedy-drama directed by the legendary Yasujirô Ozu. Set in Tokyo and capturing the essence of Japanese family values, the film follows two young boys, Isamu and Shinichi, who embark on a unique yet inspiring strike to silence.
39. Late Autumn (1960)
“Late Autumn” is a captivating Japanese comedy-drama film directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Yasujirô Ozu. The movie was released in 1960 and has since then won numerous awards, including three wins for the best picture and best director. The movie’s runtime is impressive, at 2 hours and 8 minutes, leaving the audience with a fully immersive story. The film’s premise revolves around a widow who is struggling to find the perfect husband for her daughter. To do so, she enlists the help of her late husband’s three friends. The movie is based on the novel of the same name, further cementing its depth and intrigue. Along with being cowritten by the director, it is a testament to the creative genius of the individuals involved.
40. The End of Summer (1961)
“The End of Summer, “ directed by Yasujirô Ozu, is a poignant Japanese drama that explores themes of aging, loneliness, and infidelity. Set in a small sake brewery run by an elderly man, the film delves into the concerns of his family as they uncover his past connections with an old mistress from his youth. This discovery prompts a series of introspective struggles as the protagonist grapples with his fading youth and his own sense of isolation.
41. An Autumn Afternoon (1962)
An Autumn Afternoon, directed by the renowned Yasujirô Ozu, tells a poignant tale of an aging widower and his efforts to arrange a marriage for his only daughter. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese countryside, the film delves into the complexities of family relationships, existential loneliness, and the human condition. This gentle cinema portrays a father’s love, a daughter’s longing, and the intertwining of their lives.
42. Seishun hôkago (1963)
Seishun hôkago, a 1963 Japanese drama film, takes a heartfelt look at the lives of young people as they navigate through the challenges of their high school years. Directed by Tsuneo Hatanaka and written by Yasujirô Ozu and Ton Satomi, the movie explores themes of friendship, love, and the pursuit of dreams. Chitose Kobayashi, Seiji Miyaguchi, and Kuniko Miyake star in this engaging tale of adolescence, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into the hopes and aspirations of the youth in post-war Japan.
43. Radishes and Carrots (1965)
“Radishes and Carrots” (1965), alternatively known as “Daikon to Ninjin, “ is a captivating Japanese film that delves into the intricacies of life, love, and relationships. Directed by Minoru Shibuya and written by Yasujirô Ozu, Kôgo Noda, and Shibuya himself, the movie is a poignant comedy-drama that offers a unique perspective on the human experience.
44. Danshun (1966)
“Danshun” (1966), directed by Noboru Nakamura, is a heart-wrenching Japanese drama that provides a unique look into the complexities of relationships, family, and cultural expectations. Set in Japan, this masterpiece of 60s cinema follows the intertwining lives of a widow, her grown daughter, and a widowed friend in a beautifully layered story that invites you into the deepest moments of each character’s emotion.
45. Such a Long Absence (1985)
“Such a Long Absence” (1985) is a heart-wrenching drama that captures the struggle of a young girl, played by Pemi Zouni, who stands by her mentally ill sister amidst the cruelty and isolation of her social environment. The story is set in Athens, Greece, and showcases the girl’s unwavering love and sensitivity, as she faces the challenges that arise when her actions are misunderstood.
46. Wings of Desire (1987)
“Wings of Desire” is an extraordinary drama-fantasy film that explores the complexities and longing of the human experience. Set in the bustling city of Berlin, an angel named Damiel (played by Bruno Ganz) yearns for the tangible pleasures of mortality and falls in love with a mortal woman.
48. The Cinema of Ozu According to Kiju Yoshida (1993)
The Cinema of Ozu According to Kiju Yoshida is an enlightening documentary that offers a glimpse into the life and works of the early Japanese filmmaker, Yasujirô Ozu. Directed by Yoshishige Yoshida, this insightful film delves deep into the world of Ozu, revealing the intricacies of his filmmaking techniques and the significance of his films in the realm of Japanese cinema.
49. Tôkyô monogatari (2002)
Tôkyô monogatari is a captivating drama film that takes viewers on an emotional journey through the heart of Japan. Directed by Rieko Miyamoto, this movie follows the lives of characters navigating through various elements of love, friendship, and personal growth.
50. A Daughter’s Marriage (2003)
“A Daughter’s Marriage”, directed by Kon Ichikawa, is a poignant drama that takes the audience on a heartfelt journey. Set in Japan, the film is based on a novel and has garnered an impressive IMDb rating of 8.4.
51. Moriya, mi Ciudad (2019)
“Moriya, mi Ciudad” is a mesmerizing documentary film that explores the hidden beauty of Japan’s small city of Moriya. Surrounded by Tokyo and other major cityscapes, Moriya’s unassuming presence hides an array of stunning views, charming rivers, and sacred sanctuaries. The film takes audiences on a trip to downtown Moriya, where they are treated to a visual feast of exquisite landscapes and the city’s unique charm. The film is directed by Chris Jiménez, showcasing the breathtaking sights of Ibaraki, Japan, and features Sanae Nagashima, a renowned Japanese actress and producer. With a runtime of 2 hours and a content rating of PG, this documentary is sure to delight viewers and offer a fresh perspective on the beauty that urban Japan has to offer.
