Birth of a Jazz Maiden 1957
Directed by Masahisa Sunohara in 1957, *Birth of a Jazz Maiden* is a tender Japanese music drama that follows Kawai Midori, a resilient young woman who supports her younger siblings as a camellia oil peddler in Izu.
Director: Masahisa Sunohara
Cast
Chiemi Eri
Midori Kawai
Yūjirō Ishihara
Haruo Nanjô
Isamu Kosugi
Tôhô Tani
Hiroshi Nihon'yanagi
Yutaka Katô
Taiji Tonoyama
Senkichi Hanamura
Kyōji Aoyama
Yoshihiko Katô
Ikuko Kimuro
Sanae
Kiyoko Tange
Oyoshi
Shintarō Kido
Dam Dam
Shinsuke Maki
Ken
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Birth of a Jazz Maiden (1957) about?
The film tells the story of Kawai Midori, a young woman who juggles the care of her siblings with her work as a camellia oil peddler in Izu. Her life changes when she meets a jazz band and impresses them with her unexpected singing talent during a chance encounter.
Who directed Birth of a Jazz Maiden?
Birth of a Jazz Maiden was directed by Masahisa Sunohara, known for blending traditional Japanese settings with modern artistic influences in his films.
Who stars in Birth of a Jazz Maiden?
The film features Chiemi Eri as Kawai Midori, alongside Yūjirō Ishihara, Isamu Kosugi, and Hiroshi Nihon'yanagi in key supporting roles.
Is Birth of a Jazz Maiden (1957) worth watching?
Though unrated, *Birth of a Jazz Maiden* offers a charming snapshot of 1950s Japanese culture and jazz music, making it a hidden gem for fans of classic melodramas. Its focus on family and artistic discovery gives it a timeless appeal.
How long is Birth of a Jazz Maiden?
Birth of a Jazz Maiden has a runtime of 77 minutes.
About Birth of a Jazz Maiden (1957) — A Musical Journey of Resilience and Song
Directed by Masahisa Sunohara in 1957, *Birth of a Jazz Maiden* is a tender Japanese music drama that follows Kawai Midori, a resilient young woman who supports her younger siblings as a camellia oil peddler in Izu. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a wandering jazz band and a curious student photographer, Kato Yutaka. Midori's soulful singing captivates the band's lead vocalist, sparking a transformative moment where her raw talent meets the vibrant energy of 1950s jazz culture.
Set against the lush backdrop of post-war Japan, the film weaves themes of family, resilience, and the power of music to bridge gaps between worlds. With its gentle pacing and heartfelt performances—particularly by Chiemi Eri in the lead role—*Birth of a Jazz Maiden* offers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of itinerant performers and fleeting connections.
