Cast
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Takako Matsu
as Tokiko Hirai
Haru Kuroki
as Taki Nunomiya
Satoshi Tsumabuki
as Takeshi
Chieko Baisho
as Taki Nunomiya
Yui Natsukawa
as Yasuko Arai
Yukijiro Hotaru
as Liquor Store Old Man
Isao Hashizume
as Elementary School Teacher
Kazuko Yoshiyuki
as Mrs. Konaka
Takatarô Kataoka
as Masaki Hirai
Hidetaka Yoshioka
as Masaharu Itakura
Shigeru Muroi
as Sadako
Takashi Sasano
as Kazuo Hanawa
Fumino Kimura
as Yuki
Haru Kuroki
as Young Taki
Tomoko Nakajima
as Mutsuko Matsuoka
Crew
Director
- Yoji Yamada
Producer
- Tadashi Ohsumi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Little House examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Yoji Yamada brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Little House took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 136 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 196 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2184 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Little House shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Without Prejudice, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Little House offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Untitled Alvin Ailey Project and Dreams of Love explore similar territory, The Little House stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 25, 2014
- Runtime: 2h 16m
