We all know Studio Ghibli is famous for making films that touch our hearts, often exploring themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and the beauty of everyday life. Only Yesterday directed by Isao Takahata and based on a manga by Hotaru Okamoto and Yûko Tone. This movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves Studio Ghibli or enjoys beautiful, touching stories.
After watching Only Yesterday, I felt deeply touched by its simple yet powerful storytelling. The film’s exploration of memory and identity is done with such honesty that it leaves a lasting impression. Taeko’s journey reminded me of my own moments of reflection and how our past shapes our present.
It is a film that encourages you to think about your own lives and the memories that shape them. For anyone looking for a heartfelt and beautifully made story, Only Yesterday is a must-watch anime.
A Story of Reflection and Rediscovery
The film is set in 1982 and follows Taeko, a 27-year-old woman who has always lived in Tokyo. She’s not married and works at a company in the busy city. Taeko decides to take a break from her city life and help with the safflower harvest in the quiet countryside of Yamagata. As she travels by night on a train, she starts to remember her childhood in 1966.
Taeko’s memories take us back to her school days, where she longed for holidays like her classmates, experienced her first crush, and dealt with the challenges of growing up. These flashbacks are not just nostalgic; they help us understand Taeko’s inner thoughts and feelings, showing us how her childhood dreams and experiences shaped who she is today.
A Personal Journey
When Taeko arrives in Yamagata, she is surprised to be picked up by Toshio, the second cousin of her brother-in-law. During her stay, she feels nostalgic and thoughtful, thinking about her childhood while dealing with adult issues like her career and love life. Toshio becomes a friend who helps her understand her feelings and find clarity.
The film blends Taeko’s past and present beautifully, creating a story that feels both personal and universal. Taeko’s journey is about self-discovery, as she faces her childhood dreams and her adult reality. The peaceful countryside is the perfect setting for her reflections.
A Beautiful and Emotional Film
Only Yesterday is not just a great story; it is also visually stunning. The animation captures the detailed landscapes of rural Japan, contrasting with the softer, nostalgic tones of Taeko’s childhood memories. The attention to detail in the animation brings every scene to life, drawing viewers into both the vibrant present and the wistful past.
The film evokes deep emotions with its universal themes of growth, change, and self-acceptance. Taeko’s struggles and achievements feel real and relatable, making her journey one that many can connect with.
