東京の合唱 Tokyo Chorus by Yasujirō Ozu and starring Tokihiko Okada - Emiko Yagumo

Описание: Immerse yourself in the beautiful art of Japanese storytelling with Tokyo Chorus. This melodic journey through urban harmony is a must-listen for fans of lofi music and subliminal storytelling.

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Yasujirō Ozu (小津 安二郎, Ozu Yasujirō, 12 December 1903 – 12 December 1963) was a Japanese film director and screenwriter. He began his career during the era of silent films, and his last films were made in colour in the early 1960s. Ozu first made a number of short comedies, before turning to more serious themes in the 1930s. The most prominent themes of Ozu's work are marriage and family, especially the relationships between generations. His most widely beloved films include Late Spring (1949), Tokyo Story (1953), and An Autumn Afternoon (1962).

Widely regarded as one of the world's greatest and most influential filmmakers, Ozu's work has continued to receive acclaim since his passing away. In the 2012 Sight & Sound poll, Ozu's Tokyo Story was voted the third-greatest film of all time by critics world-wide. In the same poll, Tokyo Story was voted the greatest film of all time by 358 directors and film-makers world-wide

Tokyo Chorus (東京の合唱 Tokyo no kôrasu?) is a 1931 silent film produced by Shochiku Company, directed by Yasujirō Ozu and starring Tokihiko Okada and Emiko Yagumo. It was based on various stories in the Shoshimin-gai (Middle Class Avenue) series and also shares influences with King Vidor's The Crowd. Most of the film takes place in Tokyo during a depression-like time in the beginning of the Shōwa period.

"Tokyo Chorus" (東京合唱, Tōkyō Gasshō) is a silent film directed by Yasujirō Ozu, released in 1931. This film is significant not only as a work within the silent cinema era but also as an early example of Ozu's distinctive style and thematic preoccupations. Below is an analysis of the film, focusing on its narrative structure, themes, cinematography, and historical context.

Narrative Structure
The film follows the life of a young boy named Taro and his father, a factory worker. As the story unfolds, we witness the family's struggles amidst economic hardships, portraying the challenges faced by the working class in early 20th-century Japan. The narrative is divided into several key episodes that highlight the familial bond and the impact of societal changes on personal lives.

Character Development: Taro's character evolves throughout the film, transitioning from innocence to a more complex understanding of adult responsibilities and societal pressures. His experiences serve as a lens through which the audience can engage with the broader themes of the film.

Innocence and Growing Up: The film poignantly explores the theme of childhood innocence juxtaposed with the harsh realities of adult life. Taro's experiences reflect the loss of innocence that many children face as they confront societal expectations and familial obligations..

Modernization and Tradition: As Japan was undergoing rapid modernization during this period, the film captures the tension between traditional values and modern life. The characters often find themselves caught between the old ways and the new societal norms, reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the era.

Visual Composition: Ozu's cinematographic style is characterized by its simplicity and elegance. The use of low camera angles and static shots creates a sense of intimacy and allows the viewer to engage more deeply with the characters' emotions.

Pacing and Rhythm: Ozu's deliberate pacing allows moments of silence and reflection, inviting the audience to contemplate the characters' internal conflicts. The transitions between scenes often mirror the ebb and flow of life, reinforcing the film's contemplative tone.
Historical Context
"Tokyo Chorus" was released during a period of significant change in Japan, marked by the effects of industrialization and urbanization. The film reflects the anxieties of a society grappling with modernity, capturing the essence of a nation in transition. Ozu's work can be seen as a response to these changes, emphasizing the importance of family and personal relationships amidst the tumult of societal evolution.
Conclusion
"Tokyo Chorus" is a poignant exploration of family, innocence, and the human condition, encapsulated within Ozu's distinctive cinematic language. The film's blend of social commentary and emotional depth makes it a noteworthy entry in the silent film canon and a precursor to Ozu's later masterpieces. Through its exploration of universal themes, "Tokyo Chorus" continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting the enduring struggles of the human experience.

live at "Michalis Cacoyiannis Foundation" in Athens, June 2015.