Late Spring + The Only Son (Region B)

Yasujiro Ozu’s influential masterpiece is a tender meditation on family politics, sacrifice and the status quo. Also included is affecting depression-era dramaThe Only Son

Yasijiro Ozu’shugely influential award-winning masterpiece,Late Springis a tender meditation on family politics, sacrifice and the status quo. Noiko (Setsuko Hara), and her father, Professor Somiya (Chishu Ryu), live together in perfect harmony but old certainties are put at risk when an interfering aunt raises the question of marriage. Introducing Ozu’s popular Noriko character,Late Springpoignantly examines the gradual compromise between modernity and tradition.

Against the backdrop of depression-era Japan, Ozu’s first sound filmThe Only Sonis an affecting drama which observes a single-parent only-child relationship from the mother’s perspective. Otsune Nonomiya (Choko Lida) works long hours in a silk factory to fund her son Ryosuke’s college education in Tokyo. But when she visits him to see his new life she finds some very startling surprises. Featuring Chishu Ryu as the teacher who convinces Otsune to part with Ryosuke,The Only Sonis a powerful tale of sacrifice and hope.

Extras

• Standard Definition and High Definition presentations ofLate SpringandThe Only Son(DVD and Blu-ray)
• Fully illustrated booklet with newly commissioned essay
• New and improved English subtitles