Only Yesterday

"Only Yesterday" is a poignant animated film that delicately explores the contrast between past and present through the eyes of a young Japanese woman named Taeko. As she embarks on a trip to the countryside to pick safflowers, the serene rural setting evokes a flood of childhood memories. The narrative seamlessly weaves between Taeko’s present experiences and her reflections on growing up in Tokyo during the 1960s, revealing the complexities and joys of her youth.

Voiced by Mayumi Izuka as Tsuneko Tani, the film portrays Taeko's introspective journey with subtlety and depth. The countryside trip serves not only as a physical escape but also as a spiritual voyage, prompting Taeko to reevaluate her life choices and aspirations. Through connections with locals and the natural beauty surrounding her, she gains new insights into her identity and the passage of time.

Supporting this heartfelt storyline is Ichiro Nagai’s portrayal of Torahige, whose voice brings warmth and wisdom to the film's rural characters. Together, the voice cast and the evocative animation craft a nostalgic tapestry that captures the universality of growth, memory, and self-discovery. "Only Yesterday" stands as an intimate reflection on how our past shapes who we become, inviting viewers to cherish their own stories.

Full Cast of Only Yesterday

Crew of Only Yesterday