Only Yesterday
In lyrical switches between the present and the past, Taeko contemplates the arc of her life, and wonders if she has been true to the dreams of her childhood self.
Critics Sentiment
Taeko leaves train after childhood memories convince her to stay
Taeko and Toshio discuss fractions and farming struggles
The film dips during extended farming discussions but soars to emotional heights with the transcendent ending sequence.
Only Yesterday builds steadily through brilliant childhood flashbacks and realistic character development, with reviewers consistently praising the authentic emotional depth. The film occasionally slows during rural life discussions but reaches extraordinary heights with iconic scenes like the pineapple sequence and the deeply moving conclusion. Critics celebrated this as a mature, understated masterpiece that avoids melodrama while delivering profound emotional impact.
Full cast
Miki Imai
Taeko Okajima (voice)
Toshiro Yanagiba
Toshio (voice)
Yoko Honna
Taeko (voice)
Mayumi Izuka
Tsuneko Tani (voice)
Masahiro Itou
Father (voice)
Chie Kitagawa
Taeko's Grandmother (voice)
Yuuki Masuda
Hirota (voice)
Yuki Minowa
Yaeko (voice)
Michie Terada
Mother (voice)
Yorie Yamashita
Nanako (voice)
Ichiro Nagai
Torahige (voice)
Yoshimasa Kondo
Homeroom Teacher (voice)
Issey Takahashi
Classmate (voice)
Crew
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