This film stars Setsuko Hara, a regular in Ozu films, who, to me, has to be one of the finest if not the finest actress Japan has ever produced. She exudes warmth in her roles and when she smiles can rightly be considered beautiful. She plays Noriko, a 28 year old single lady her family wants to marry off. If you think you have seen this before in Ozu's "Late Spring", you kind of have, but its still a great film. It is a testament to Ms. Hara's beguiling strength that she can pull off this role so admirably. Unlike "Late Spring" (which is also great), this film is more comic. There are little moments that will make you smile. Noriko's best friend in the film Ayako is also single and they make fun of their married female friends. This movie moves faster than "Late Spring" and the magnificent "Tokyo Story", and it heads towards the end which may fill you with mixed emotions. Ozu, to me, is one of the finest directors ever, from any country. He is a master of subtlety, and the performances he is able to get out of his actors is downright stunning at times. The combination of Ozu and Ms. Hara in film was one of the greatest pairings of actor/director ever. You just love Noriko in this film. The trilogy of "Late Spring", "Early Summer" and "Tokyo Story" is a must watch. I think you'll love it.
Review of Early Summer
