No Regrets for Our Youth

Synopsis

No Regrets for Our Youth, directed by the renowned filmmaker Akira Kurosawa and starring Setsuko Hara, is a poignant post-war drama that explores the turbulent journey of a young woman amidst the political and social upheavals of 1930s Japan. The film narrates the story of Yukie, a passionate student who grapples with the consequences of her father's political dissent and the impact it has on her beliefs and relationships. Through her struggles, the film delves deeply into themes of idealism, sacrifice, and resilience, painting a vivid portrait of youth confronting oppressive circumstances. Its evocative storytelling and rich character development illustrate a timeless reflection on courage and conviction in the face of adversity.

Cast

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  Setsuko Hara

  Yukie Yagihara

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  Susumu Fujita

  Ruykichi Noge

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  Denjirō Ōkōchi

  Professor Yagihara

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  Haruko Sugimura

  Madame Noge

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  Eiko Miyoshi

  Madame Yagihara

• Akitake Kōno

  Itokawa

Reviews

No Regrets for Our Youth has been widely acclaimed by critics for its emotional depth and historical significance. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive 100% rating, reflecting unanimous admiration for its narrative and performances. Critics often highlight Setsuko Hara's compelling portrayal of Yukie, describing it as a "stirring performance that anchors the film's emotional core." The film's nuanced exploration of political tensions has also been praised, with Variety noting, "a masterful depiction of youth courageously standing against authoritarian pressures." On IMDb, the movie has a solid rating of 7.1/10 based on numerous audience and critic reviews, indicating general appreciation albeit with some viewers finding the pacing reflective of its era. Metacritic, while not frequently listing older films, often cites No Regrets for Our Youth as an essential work demonstrating Kurosawa's early exploration beyond his usual genre boundaries. Some critiques mention the film's slow pace and melodramatic moments typical of 1940s cinema but overall, it is celebrated as a powerful and inspiring work that resonates with contemporary audiences interested in historical and political drama.