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"Tora-san" saga hits 50 films, celebrating post-war Japan
🇨🇭 Switzerland /Culture & Society

"Tora-san" saga hits 50 films, celebrating post-war Japan

From Le Temps · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • The Japanese film saga "Tora-san" has reached its 50th installment, marking a half-century cinematic run.
  • The series features a beloved vagabond character, consistently portrayed by the same actor, with most films directed by Yôji Yamada.
  • For the first time outside Japan, the saga is being released on DVD and Blu-ray, starting with the initial five films.

The enduring Japanese film saga "Tora-san" has achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching its 50th installment after half a century on the big screen. This record-breaking series of comedies centers on an endearing vagabond character, a role consistently filled by the same actor throughout its long history.

Directed by the prolific Yôji Yamada, who remains active at 94 years old, all but two films in the series bear his directorial mark. The films are celebrated for their blend of tenderness, generosity, and deep popular appeal, offering a unique window into post-war Japan.

In a significant move for international audiences, the "Tora-san" saga is now available outside of Japan for the first time. The release includes a DVD and Blu-ray collection, beginning with the first five films. This initiative is accompanied by bonus features curated by Claude Leblanc, a noted cineaste and author of a biography on Yamada Yôji, providing valuable context for this essential cinematic journey.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Temps in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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