A Distant Cry from Spring 1980
"A man, a woman, and her son – three lives thrown together on a stormy night."
Directed by Yoji Yamada, *A Distant Cry from Spring (1980)* is a quietly powerful Japanese drama set in the rugged landscapes of Hokkaido.
Director: Yoji Yamada
Cast
Ken Takakura
Kosaku Tajima
Chieko Baisho
Tamiko Kazami
Hidetaka Yoshioka
Takeshi Kazami
Tetsuya Takeda
Katsuo
Noko Konoha
Kayoko
Mizuho Suzuki
Shuunichiro Tajima
Tokuko Sugiyama
Housewife Next Door
Tappei Shimokawa
Taijirou Ono
Yasuhisa Sonoda
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Distant Cry from Spring (1980) about?
*A Distant Cry from Spring* tells the story of a mother and her young son living a secluded life on a Hokkaido farm, whose world is upended by the arrival of a mysterious drifter. His presence sparks emotional stirrings in the mother and mentorship in her son, but his departure is as inevitable as the changing seasons, leaving behind only memories of warmth and wisdom.
Who directed A Distant Cry from Spring?
Yoji Yamada directed *A Distant Cry from Spring (1980)*. Known for his evocative storytelling and character-driven dramas, Yamada crafts a deeply atmospheric narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.
Who stars in A Distant Cry from Spring?
The film stars Ken Takakura as the mysterious visitor, alongside Chieko Baisho as the mother and Hidetaka Yoshioka as her son. Tetsuya Takeda and Noko Konoha also deliver memorable performances in supporting roles.
Is A Distant Cry from Spring (1980) worth watching?
As a gentle yet profoundly moving drama, *A Distant Cry from Spring* is worth watching for fans of character studies and atmospheric storytelling. Yamada's direction and the lead performances create a film that feels both timeless and deeply personal, offering a quiet but lasting emotional impact.
How long is A Distant Cry from Spring?
The runtime of *A Distant Cry from Spring (1980)* is 123 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About A Distant Cry from Spring (1980) — A tender Japanese drama of fleeting love and quiet transformation
Directed by Yoji Yamada, *A Distant Cry from Spring (1980)* is a quietly powerful Japanese drama set in the rugged landscapes of Hokkaido. The film follows the lone life of a devoted mother raising her son on a remote farm, until a mysterious stranger arrives on a storm-lashed night and alters their world forever. This unexpected visitor awakens emotions in the mother and teaches the boy valuable lessons about resilience and compassion, but his presence is as fleeting as the autumn wind that carries him away. Yamada crafts a tender, atmospheric story about fleeting connections and the echoes they leave behind.
With its understated performances and sweeping rural backdrop, *A Distant Cry from Spring* explores themes of loneliness, transience, and the quiet strength found in human bonds. The film's gentle pacing and emotional depth invite viewers to reflect on how brief encounters can reshape lives, leaving an indelible mark on those left behind. A masterclass in subtlety, Yamada's direction turns a simple narrative into a poignant meditation on love and loss.
