Tora-san, the Go-Between

Synopsis

Tora-san, the Go-Between is the 35th installment in the beloved Japanese film series "Otoko wa Tsurai yo," directed by Yoji Yamada and starring Kiyoshi Atsumi as the affable and kind-hearted traveling salesman, Torajirō Kuruma. In this 1985 romantic comedy-drama, Tora-san finds himself entangled in the complications of love as he acts as a mediator between two lovers. Known for its heartwarming portrayal of everyday life and relationships, the film continues the tradition of blending humor with poignant moments. Tora-san's optimistic spirit amid personal and interpersonal challenges makes this installment both entertaining and emotionally resonant within the series.

Cast

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  Kiyoshi Atsumi

  Torajiro Kuruma

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  Chieko Baisho

  Sakura

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  Mitsuru Hirata

  Tamio Sakata

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  Masami Shimojō

  Uncle

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  Chieko Misaki

  Aunty

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  Gin Maeda

  Hiroshi

Reviews

Tora-san, the Go-Between has generally received favorable reviews from fans of the long-running series and newcomers appreciating its warm narrative style. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.7/10, reflecting a solid reception though not among the series' highest-rated entries. Critics praise Kiyoshi Atsumi's consistent and nuanced performance, emphasizing the character's enduring charm and relatability. Yoji Yamada's direction is often highlighted for maintaining the series' signature blend of gentle humor and emotional depth, bringing a heartfelt look at complicated romantic dynamics. While some viewers found the plot's pacing slower compared to other films in the series, the movie is widely appreciated for its character-driven storytelling and the cultural texture it provides, showcasing mid-1980s Japan with nostalgic affection. Rotten Tomatoes does not have aggregated reviews for this specific title, but the series overall is respected for its significant place in Japanese cinema. Metacritic scores are also unavailable, but fan discussions typically note the film's sentimental value and comforting tone. In summary, Tora-san, the Go-Between may not break new ground but succeeds as a charming, gentle chapter in a legendary saga.