Nineteen

Synopsis

Nineteen (19 ナインティーン) is a 1987 Japanese drama directed by and starring Noriyuki Higashiyama. The film follows the coming-of-age journey of a young man navigating the complexities of adolescence, identity, and relationships during a turbulent time in his life. Set against an urban Japanese backdrop, the story delves into themes of self-discovery, the pressures of societal expectations, and the bittersweet nature of youth. With a blend of emotional depth and realistic portrayals, the film captures the essence of being nineteen, a pivotal age where dreams and reality often collide.

Cast

• 

  Noriyuki Higashiyama

  East

• Kazukiyo Nishikiori

  West

• Katsuhide Uekusa

  South

• 

  Natsuki Ozawa

  Miyako

• Alexis Hall

  Sofia

Reviews

Nineteen has received mixed to generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a respectable rating of 6.8/10 based on user reviews, reflecting a moderate appreciation. Many reviewers praise Noriyuki Higashiyama's authentic portrayal of youth and the film's sincere exploration of adolescent challenges. Some critics commend the film's atmospheric storytelling and the emotional resonance of its character development. However, certain reviews point out that the pacing can feel slow and the narrative somewhat predictable at times. Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic do not have extensive coverage for this film, reflecting its more niche status outside Japan. Nonetheless, fans of coming-of-age dramas and Japanese cinema value Nineteen for its heartfelt depiction of a young man's formative year. As a cult classic from the late 1980s, its nostalgic quality and cultural context contribute to its enduring appeal among a dedicated audience.

See also

Shutter Island

Dune: Part Two

The Man with the Golden Gun

The Insider