20 Best Yasujiro Ozu Films: Top Movies From The Japanese Master

Yasujiro Ozu was a Japanese filmmaker who made some of the most influential films in the history of cinema.

He was born on February 13, 1903 in Tokyo, Japan. His father died when he was a child and his mother raised him alone.

Ozu began his career as an accountant at an insurance company, but soon found himself drawn to filmmaking. He opened a small film production company in 1936 and produced his first film, The Only Son (Nora-ni-onegai), in 1937.

Best Yasujiro Ozu Films

Yasujiro Ozu’s films are slow, unshowy and delicate. They’re also unshowy and delicate in the most classical sense of the word.

He doesn’t blow things up, he doesn’t stage fights or chase people around. His characters are just two people talking about their lives.

1. An Autumn Afternoon (1962)               

An Autumn Afternoon is a beautiful and poignant film that explores the themes of aging, loneliness, and regret.

The film tells the story of an aging widower, Shuhei Hirayama (Chishu Ryu), who is struggling to come to terms with his daughter’s impending marriage and his own loneliness.

What sets An Autumn Afternoon apart from other films is its slow and contemplative pace.

Ozu’s signature style, with its static camera and low-angle shots, creates a sense of stillness and introspection that allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the characters’ lives.

The film is filled with quiet moments of reflection and observation that are both beautiful and heartbreaking.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly that of Chishu Ryu as Hirayama.

His portrayal of a man grappling with his own mortality and the changing world around him is both nuanced and deeply moving.

The supporting cast, including Shima Iwashita as Hirayama’s daughter and Keiji Sada as his old friend, are also excellent.

The film’s themes of aging and loneliness are universal, and resonate with audiences of all ages and cultures.

The film’s examination of family dynamics, particularly the relationship between fathers and daughters, is also a standout feature.

It is a testament to Ozu’s skill as a filmmaker, and a must-see for anyone interested in Japanese cinema or the art of filmmaking in general.

2. Good Morning (1959)

Good Morning is a delightful and charming film that explores the themes of communication, community, and the importance of human connection. 

What makes Good Morning so special is its gentle and humorous approach to exploring the complexities of human relationships.

The film is filled with whimsical moments of everyday life, from the boys’ playful pranks to the adults’ gossiping and arguing about trivial matters.

Ozu’s signature style, with its static camera and low-angle shots, creates a sense of intimacy and warmth that draws the audience into the world of the film.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly those of the child actors who play Isamu and Minoru.

Their naturalistic performances and infectious energy are a joy to watch, and their interactions with the adults in the film are both hilarious and touching.

The supporting cast, including Chishu Ryu as the boys’ father and Kuniko Miyake as a neighbor, are also excellent.

The film’s themes of communication and community are universal, and resonate with audiences of all ages and cultures.

The film’s examination of the role of technology in modern society, particularly the way it can both bring people together and drive them apart, is also a standout feature.

3. Tokyo Story (1953)

Tokyo Story is a masterpiece of Japanese cinema that explores the complexities of family dynamics and the changing cultural landscape of post-war Japan.

Director Yasujirō Ozu’s minimalist style and attention to detail make for a poignant and introspective viewing experience.

The film follows an elderly couple from the countryside as they visit their adult children in Tokyo.

Despite their efforts to connect with their busy and self-absorbed offspring, the couple is met with indifference and even hostility.

This poignant portrayal of familial disconnection is a theme that resonates with viewers of all cultures and generations.

Through beautifully composed shots of the city and countryside, Ozu captures the cultural and generational divide that exists between the traditional values of the older generation and the modernization of Japan.

The film’s slow pace and emphasis on dialogue might not be for everyone, but for those willing to invest their time, Tokyo Story is a deeply rewarding experience.

4. Late Autumn (1960)

Late Autumn is a timeless classic that showcases the mastery of director Yasujirō Ozu.

This film is a poignant portrayal of the intricacies of human relationships and the emotional complexities that come with it.

The plot revolves around the story of a young woman named Akiko, who is mourning the loss of her husband.

As she navigates through her grief, she meets a young man named Takashi, and together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

What makes Late Autumn an exceptional film is its ability to capture the nuances of human emotions and the subtle changes that occur during a conversation.

The performances by the lead actors are outstanding, and they bring an authenticity to their characters that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

The film’s cinematography is equally impressive, with Ozu’s signature use of static shots and low angles, creating a sense of intimacy between the audience and the characters on screen.

The pacing of the film is slow, but deliberate, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the story and the characters’ emotions fully.

 

5. Floating Weeds (1959)

Floating Weeds is a visually stunning and emotionally poignant masterpiece from director Yasujirō Ozu.

The film follows a theater troupe as they visit a seaside town, where the troupe’s leader reconnects with an old flame and their son, who is unaware of his true parentage.

The film’s black-and-white cinematography is breathtaking, with Ozu’s trademark static camera capturing the beauty of the Japanese countryside and the everyday activities of the townspeople.

The performances are equally impressive, with the cast delivering understated yet powerful performances that perfectly capture the subtle nuances of human emotion.

At its heart, Floating Weeds is a meditation on the complexities of family, love, and forgiveness. Ozu’s gentle touch and masterful storytelling make this a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

6. Early Summer (1951)

Early Summer is a quietly powerful masterpiece from the legendary director Yasujiro Ozu that explores the complexities of family and societal expectations in post-war Japan.

The film follows a middle-class family as they navigate the various pressures and conflicts that arise when their daughter, Noriko, reaches marriageable age.

Ozu’s trademark minimalist style is on full display here, with each shot carefully composed and imbued with meaning.

The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the world of the characters and their relationships.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with Setsuko Hara delivering a particularly nuanced and affecting portrayal of Noriko.

Early Summer is ultimately a meditation on the nature of change and the passing of time, as well as a commentary on the ways in which societal expectations can shape our lives.

It’s a film that rewards patience and reflection, and one that lingers in the mind long after the credits have rolled.

7. Tokyo Twilight (1957)

Tokyo Twilight is a haunting and beautifully crafted film from legendary director Yasujiro Ozu. Set in post-World War II Japan, the movie tells the story of two sisters who are reunited with their estranged father after many years.

As they navigate the complexities of their relationships with one another and their father, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of life and death.

Ozu’s signature style is on full display here, with his slow and deliberate camera movements and understated performances from his talented cast.

The film is steeped in melancholy and a sense of longing, as the characters struggle to find their place in a rapidly changing world.

The cinematography is stunning, with Ozu’s use of light and shadow creating a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the film’s themes.

The score, composed by Kojun Saito, is also a standout, with its haunting melodies underscoring the emotional weight of the story.

Tokyo Twilight is a masterful work of cinema that deserves to be seen by anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking.

Ozu’s delicate touch and profound insights into the human condition make this a must-see for cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

8. The End of Summer (1961)

The End of Summer is a poignant and introspective film that explores the themes of family, tradition, and the passage of time.

Directed by Yasujiro Ozu, this Japanese masterpiece is a subtle and nuanced portrayal of a family struggling to adapt to the changing times.

The film follows the story of an aging patriarch, Manbei Kohayagawa, who owns a sake brewery and is facing financial difficulties.

He is also dealing with the emotional turmoil of his daughters leaving the family home and his mistress pressuring him to marry her.

As the family members navigate their own personal struggles, they are forced to confront their past decisions and the impact they have had on their relationships.

Ozu’s direction is masterful, as he uses his signature static camera shots and minimalistic style to capture the nuance and complexity of the characters’ emotions.

The performances, particularly by Setsuko Hara as the eldest daughter, and Ganjirō Nakamura as Manbei, are exceptional, bringing a depth and authenticity to their roles.

The End of Summer is a beautiful and meditative film that asks important questions about family, tradition, and change.

It is a must-see for fans of Japanese cinema and anyone interested in exploring the human condition. Highly recommended.

9. Equinox Flower (1958)

Equinox Flower is a masterful exploration of generational conflict and societal norms in post-war Japan.

Director Yasujirō Ozu expertly weaves together a complex web of characters and relationships, all while examining the tensions between tradition and modernity.

At the heart of the film is the story of a successful businessman, Hirayama, who is faced with the challenge of his daughter’s impending marriage.

The catch? She has chosen her own husband, rather than following the arranged marriage tradition.

As Hirayama grapples with his own feelings of obligation to societal norms versus the desire to support his daughter’s happiness, Ozu paints a nuanced portrait of a man struggling to navigate the changing landscape of Japanese culture.

Equinox Flower is a visual feast, with Ozu’s trademark use of static shots and low-angle compositions creating a sense of stillness and contemplation.

The film’s muted color palette and minimalist set design add to the overall feeling of restraint and subtlety.

10. I Was Born, But… (1932)

I recently had the pleasure of watching the 1932 Japanese film, “I Was Born, But…” on Letterboxd, and I must say, it was a delightful experience.

Directed by Yasujirō Ozu, this silent film is a perfect example of the director’s ability to capture the essence of everyday life and family dynamics.

The story follows two young brothers, Keiji and Ryoichi, who are struggling to come to terms with their family’s move to a new neighborhood.

As they navigate the challenges of making new friends and dealing with bullies, they also come to realize that their father, who they idolized, is not as impressive as they once thought.

The film is beautifully shot, with Ozu’s signature use of static camera angles and low-angle shots. The performances by the child actors are also impressive, with their natural and nuanced portrayal of youthful innocence and naivety.

“I Was Born, But…” is a heartwarming and humorous film that explores the themes of family, social status, and growing up.

It’s a perfect example of Ozu’s unique style, and it’s no wonder that it’s considered one of his most significant works.

No products found.

11. The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice (1952) 

The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice (1952) is a charming and understated film that tells the story of a couple who have drifted apart over the years.

The film is directed by Yasujirō Ozu, who is known for his minimalist approach and his focus on the day-to-day lives of ordinary people.

The film follows the lives of Mokichi (Shin Saburi) and Taeko (Michiyo Kogure), who have been married for over 20 years but have grown distant from each other.

Mokichi is a successful businessman who is often away on business trips, while Taeko is a housewife who spends her days attending to domestic chores.

The film explores the theme of communication, or the lack thereof, in a relationship.

Mokichi and Taeko rarely talk to each other and when they do, it is often about trivial matters. Their lack of communication has led to a sense of alienation and loneliness in both of them.

The arrival of Taeko’s niece, Setsuko (Keiko Tsushima), brings a new energy to the household.

Setsuko is a young and vivacious woman who is not afraid to speak her mind.

She is able to connect with both Mokichi and Taeko and helps to break down the walls that have been erected between them.

The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice is a beautifully shot film that captures the essence of everyday life in post-war Japan.

The film’s pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the lives of the characters.

Overall, The Flavor of Green Tea Over Rice is a subtle and poignant film that explores the complexities of marriage and communication.

12. The Brothers and Sisters of the Toda Family (1941) 

The Brothers and Sisters of the Toda Family is a stunning portrayal of family dynamics in pre-World War II Japan.

Director Yasujirō Ozu explores the complexities of family relationships with a delicate touch, showcasing the subtle tensions and deep love that exist between siblings, parents, and children.

The film chronicles the lives of the Toda family, who are forced to confront financial hardship when the father loses his job.

The siblings and their spouses come together to support their parents, but their efforts are met with resistance from the patriarchal head of the household.

Ozu’s masterful direction is evident in every frame of the film, as he employs his signature use of static shots and low angles to create a sense of intimacy and authenticity.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with each actor conveying a range of emotions with understated grace.

Despite its somber subject matter, The Brothers and Sisters of the Toda Family is a quietly uplifting film that celebrates the enduring power of familial love.

It is a must-see for fans of classic Japanese cinema and those who appreciate subtle, humanist storytelling.

13. Early Spring (1956) 

“Early Spring” is a thought-provoking and emotionally nuanced film that delves into the complexities of post-war Japan.

Director Yasujiro Ozu masterfully portrays the struggle of the working class through the eyes of his protagonist, a young salaryman named Sugiyama.

As Sugiyama grapples with his dissatisfaction with his job, his marriage, and life in general, Ozu’s camera captures the claustrophobic environment of Tokyo’s urban landscape, emphasizing the bleakness of Sugiyama’s situation.

Toshiro Mifune delivers a standout performance as a former co-worker of Sugiyama’s who has fallen on hard times, highlighting the economic instability that plagued Japan in the aftermath of World War II.

The film’s somber tone is offset by moments of humor, mostly provided by Sugiyama’s younger colleagues who offer a refreshing perspective on the struggles of the older generation.

“Early Spring” is a poignant and introspective film that offers a sobering reflection on the human cost of progress.

Ozu’s understated direction and the captivating performances of its cast make this a must-see for fans of Japanese cinema and those interested in exploring the complexities of post-war society.

14. Late Spring (1949)   

Late Spring is a cinematic masterpiece that captured my heart from start to finish.

Directed by Yasujiro Ozu, this Japanese film is a subtle exploration of family relationships, societal norms, and the complexities of love.

The film follows the story of Noriko, a young woman who lives with her widowed father.

As her father begins to worry about her future and wants her to get married, Noriko faces the dilemma of choosing between her duty towards her family and her desire for independence.

Ozu’s direction is masterful, with his signature use of slow-paced shots, low camera angles, and simple yet poignant dialogue.

The performances are equally impressive, with Setsuko Hara delivering a nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of Noriko.

Late Spring is not just a film, but a work of art that explores the complexities of human emotions in a subtle and nuanced way.

It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of family, tradition, and love, and a testament to Ozu’s mastery in crafting a classic.

15. A Hen in the Wind (1948)

A Hen in the Wind is a powerful and emotionally charged film that tells the story of a Japanese family struggling to survive in the aftermath of World War II.

Director Yasujiro Ozu expertly captures the devastation and trauma that the war inflicted on ordinary people, and the film’s raw and honest portrayal of human suffering is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking.

The film follows the journey of a young mother named Tokiko (played by Kinuyo Tanaka) as she tries to make ends meet for her family.

Her husband has been drafted into the army, leaving her alone to care for their young son and ailing mother-in-law.

As she struggles to provide for her family, Tokiko is forced to make difficult decisions and confront her own sense of morality.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to convey the complex emotions and inner turmoil of its characters without relying on dialogue.

Ozu’s use of visual storytelling and subtle acting creates a deeply immersive experience that draws the viewer into the world of the film.

A Hen in the Wind is a poignant and powerful work of art that explores universal themes of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.

16. A Story of Floating Weeds (1934)     

A Story of Floating Weeds is a stunning masterpiece from legendary director Yasujiro Ozu.

The film follows a troupe of traveling actors as they perform in a small village, where their leader, Kihachi (Takeshi Sakamoto), reunites with his former lover, Otsune (Choko Iida), son who is unaware of his true parentage.

Ozu’s signature style of static camera shots and minimalistic storytelling is on full display in this film, which captures the beauty and simplicity of everyday life in Japan.

The black and white cinematography is breathtaking, and the performances are subtle and nuanced, allowing the emotions to speak for themselves.

What makes A Story of Floating Weeds truly special is its exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions.

It’s a poignant and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

17. There Was a Father (1942)  

There Was a Father is a timeless masterpiece that showcases the power of a father’s love and sacrifice.

Directed by Yasujirō Ozu, this film is a beautiful portrayal of the relationship between a father and his son.

The film follows the story of a widowed father who sacrifices his career as a teacher to provide his son with a better life.

The father’s love for his son is portrayed brilliantly by the talented actor Chishū Ryū. His performance is both moving and heart-wrenching.

The film’s cinematography is also worth mentioning. Ozu’s use of black and white photography adds a certain level of depth and emotion to the film.

The camera work is simple yet effective, showcasing the beauty of everyday life.

B0014OL33Y

18. The Only Son (1936)

Ozu’s early masterpiece is a powerful exploration of family, sacrifice, and the struggles of the working class in pre-war Japan.

The story of a mother’s love for her only son who grows up to become a factory worker, and her ultimate disappointment when he fails to achieve his dreams, is one that will resonate with audiences even today.

Shot in Ozu’s trademark static style, the film is a slow burn that gradually builds to an emotional climax.

The performances are understated, yet incredibly moving, particularly that of Choko Iida as the mother who carries the weight of her family’s hopes and dreams on her shoulders.

The Only Son is a perfect example of Ozu’s ability to capture the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of everyday life with a rare grace and sensitivity.

19. Record of a Tenement Gentleman (1947)     

Record of a Tenement Gentleman is a heartwarming masterpiece that beautifully captures the struggles of a poor community in post-war Japan.

This film, directed by Yasujirō Ozu, tells the story of a young boy named Ryohei who lives in a tenement building with his mother and other tenants.

The film is a beautiful portrayal of the human spirit and the resilience of the human heart. Ozu’s attention to detail and the way he captures the subtleties of human relationships is truly remarkable.

The film is not just about Ryohei’s life, but also about the lives of the people around him, their joys, and their sorrows.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this film is the way Ozu handles the portrayal of poverty. He never sensationalizes it, but rather depicts it with a quiet dignity that is both powerful and moving.

The film is a tribute to the human spirit and a celebration of the human capacity to endure.

Record of a Tenement Gentleman is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

20. An Inn in Tokyo (1935)          

As a cinephile, I had the pleasure of watching the 1935 masterpiece “An Inn in Tokyo,” directed by Yasujiro Ozu.

This film is a deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of poverty and family, with Ozu’s signature minimalist style and use of static shots.

The story follows a father and his two young sons as they struggle to make ends meet in Tokyo during the Great Depression.

They wander the streets in search of work and a place to sleep, ultimately finding refuge in an abandoned inn.

The father’s determination to provide for his children in the face of such adversity is heart-wrenching, and the bond between the family members is palpable.

What makes this film truly special is Ozu’s attention to detail and his ability to convey so much with so little.

The use of silence and natural sounds, such as the rustling of leaves or the clacking of wooden sandals, adds to the intimate atmosphere and transports the viewer into the world of the characters.

 

Characteristics of Yasujiro Ozu Films

 One of the most important characteristics of Yasujiro Ozu films is their non-verbal language.

The characters communicate through body language and facial expressions, rather than verbal communication.

This creates a sense of intimacy between the actors and viewers, as well as enhancing the sense of realism.

Ozu’s films also use ellipses (see below) to create pauses between scenes or dialogue.

In addition, there are several visual techniques that help create a sense of realism in Ozu’s films:

Close-up shots.

These are usually used to emphasize a particular aspect of an actor’s face or body, such as an emotional response or internal struggle.

Long continuous shots (including medium shots).

These are used to convey a sense of time passing, usually in relation to a character’s emotional state (see above).

Long tracking shots following characters through city streets or rural countrysides.

These shots highlight an actor’s physical presence and emotionality (see above).

Best Yasujiro Ozu Films – Wrapping Up

Yasujiro Ozu’s films are often described as being “quiet” and “subtle,” but this isn’t entirely accurate.

For one thing, they’re not that quiet at all; they’re filled with noise, even if it’s just a couple of people talking in hushed tones.

But even more than that, Ozu tends to shoot his films in a way that makes them seem slow-moving and deliberate, even when they’re not.

That’s because he’s not interested in telling stories that are fast or exciting. Instead, he wants to explore what it means to live a full life within the constraints of modern Japanese society.

In doing so, he evokes an entire world through subtle touches gestures, expressions and movements that tell us more about his characters than any dialogue ever could.

Most of his movies are also known for their lack of color; the only real “color” we see is from food or flowers (and even these tend toward monochromatic).

 

Ready to learn about some other Film Movements or Film History?