Synopsis
In 1959, Yasujiro Ozu remade his 1934 silent classic A Story of Floating Weeds in color with the celebrated cinematographer Kazuo Miyagawa (Rashomon, Ugetsu). Setting his later version in a seaside location, Ozu otherwise preserves the details of his elegantly simple plot wherein an aging actor returns to a small town with his troupe and reunities with his former lover and illegitimate son, a scenario that enrages his current mistress and results in heartbreak for all. Together, the films offer a unique glimpse into the evolution of one of cinema’s greatest directors. A Story of Floating Weeds reveals Ozu in the midst of developing his mode of expression; Floating Weeds reveals his distinct style at its pinnacle. In each, the director captures the joy and sadness in everyday life.
Collector's set includes
Floating Weeds
Yasujiro Ozu, 1959
An aging actor returns to a small town with his troupe and reunites with his former lover and illegitimate son, a scenario that enrages his current mistress and results in heartbreak for all, in Yasujiro Ozu’s color collaboration with the celebrated cinematographer Kazuo Miyagawa.
A Story of Floating Weeds
Yasujiro Ozu, 1934
An aging actor returns to a small town with his troupe and reunites with his former lover and illegitimate son, a scenario that enrages his current mistress and results in heartbreak for all, in Yasujiro Ozu’s 1934 silent classic.
Disc Features
Disc One: A Story of Floating Weeds
- New high-definition digital transfer with restored image and sound
- Audio commentary by Japanese film historian Donald Richie
- New score by noted silent-film composer Donald Sosin
- New and improved English subtitle translation by Donald Richie
- Optimal image quality: RSDL dual-layer edition
Disc Two: Floating Weeds
- New high-definition digital transfer with restored image and sound
- Audio commentary by film critic Roger Ebert
- Original theatrical trailer
- New and improved English subtitle translation by Donald Richie
- Optimal image quality: RSDL dual-layer edition
