- Genre
- Drama
- Year
- 1938
- Runtime
- 2h11
0
A Pebble by the Wayside
Ordinary lives, extraordinary resilience on the path of life.
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Synopsis
A Pebble by the Wayside (original title: 路傍の石), directed by Akihiko Katayama in 1938, is a poignant Japanese drama that explores the enduring human spirit amid social struggles. The film centers on an ordinary man who faces numerous personal and societal challenges, symbolizing the overlooked yet resilient individuals who dot the fabric of society like pebbles along a path. With its subtle narrative and evocative portrayal of early 20th-century Japanese life, it reflects themes of perseverance, dignity, and the quiet strength found in everyday existence. The film's nuanced character development and atmospheric storytelling offer a thoughtful meditation on the human condition.
Cast
Reviews
Critical reception of A Pebble by the Wayside has been generally positive, with praise directed towards its reflective narrative and authentic portrayal of Japanese societal issues in the pre-war era. Although it is not widely rated on contemporary aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, some film historians and classic cinema enthusiasts have highlighted its significance. For example, classic film scholar Jasper Sharp notes in his book "Historical Dictionary of Japanese Cinema" that the film is "a quietly powerful depiction of the common man's plight, whose understated performances and modest production values nonetheless convey profound emotional depth." IMDb users give the film an average rating around 7.0/10, appreciating its historical context and emotive storytelling, though some mention that the pacing might feel slow by modern standards. Overall, critics commend Katayama's subtle direction and the film's socio-cultural resonance, even if it doesn't cater to all contemporary tastes. The film remains a valuable piece for those interested in the foundations of Japanese cinematic storytelling.
