Snow Falling on Cedars Poster

Snow Falling on Cedars 1999

★ 6.0146 votes127 min📅 1999-12-22

"First loves last forever."

Snow Falling on Cedars (1999), directed by Scott Hicks, is a haunting drama that unfolds against the misty backdrop of a small Pacific Northwest island in the 1950s.

Director: Scott Hicks

Cast

Ethan Hawke
Ethan Hawke
Ishmael Chambers
Youki Kudoh
Youki Kudoh
Hatsue Miyamoto
Reeve Carney
Reeve Carney
Young Ishmael Chambers
Anne Suzuki
Anne Suzuki
Young Hatsue Imada
Rick Yune
Rick Yune
Kazuo Miyamoto
Max von Sydow
Max von Sydow
Nels Gudmundsson
James Rebhorn
James Rebhorn
Alvin Hooks
James Cromwell
James Cromwell
Judge Fielding
Richard Jenkins
Richard Jenkins
Sheriff Art Moran
Arija Bareikis
Arija Bareikis
Susan Marie Heine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Snow Falling on Cedars (1999) about?

In 1950s Washington State, a Japanese-American fisherman is accused of killing his neighbor on the open sea. As his trial unfolds, Ishmael, a local reporter, finds his own heart tangled in the case when his former lover becomes entangled in the proceedings. The film follows Ishmael's investigation, which leads to revelations that challenge both the community and his personal history.

Who directed Snow Falling on Cedars?

Scott Hicks directed Snow Falling on Cedars (1999), bringing a nuanced visual style to this emotionally layered drama.

Who stars in Snow Falling on Cedars?

Ethan Hawke leads the cast alongside Youki Kudoh, Max von Sydow, Reeve Carney, and Anne Suzuki in a story of love, justice, and memory.

Is Snow Falling on Cedars (1999) worth watching?

Snow Falling on Cedars is a beautifully crafted drama that blends a gripping murder mystery with deep emotional resonance. Its themes of prejudice and lost love, paired with strong performances, make it a rewarding watch for fans of atmospheric storytelling. While it's not a high-octane thriller, its quiet power lingers long after the credits roll.

How long is Snow Falling on Cedars?

Snow Falling on Cedars (1999) has a runtime of 127 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Snow Falling on Cedars (1999) — A 1950s murder mystery and a love story lost in time

Snow Falling on Cedars (1999), directed by Scott Hicks, is a haunting drama that unfolds against the misty backdrop of a small Pacific Northwest island in the 1950s. When a Japanese-American fisherman is accused of murdering his neighbor, the trial dredges up old wounds for Ishmael, a local reporter whose past love becomes unexpectedly entwined with the case. As Ishmael digs deeper, he uncovers secrets that challenge his understanding of justice, memory, and the enduring power of first love.

Set against a vividly realized post-war America, the film explores themes of prejudice, loyalty, and the fragile nature of truth. With Ethan Hawke leading a talented ensemble cast, Snow Falling on Cedars weaves a story that lingers like the snowfall it's named for—quietly beautiful, yet heavy with the weight of history. Whether you're drawn to its emotional depth or its masterful storytelling, this film offers a compelling journey through love and loss.