Only Yesterday Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation of "Only Yesterday" is exemplary, transforming a 25-year-old film into a contemporary visual masterpiece. The Blu-ray release showcases the exceptional artistry of the feature, creating an abundance of pause-worthy moments without sacrificing its inherent filmic quality. Colors are bright and crisp, with subtle distinctions that help identify timelines—softer hues underscore innocence in the flashbacks, while bolder tones emphasize the modern world. Delineation remains uncompromised, allowing for clear observation of hand-crafted textures. The source material's cleanliness and sharpness add intriguing detail to characters and environments during exterior scenes.

The 1080p transfer achieves a stunningly filmic appearance, retaining a natural cinematic texture that seems lovingly preserved. Despite the film's age, there is no evidence of wear and tear, with colors that remain vibrant and flickering only rarely visible. Black levels are sufficiently dark, and primary colors are vivid, making them pop off the screen. The white areas are balanced, avoiding overexposure, and fade-ins and fade-outs are smooth, free from noticeable banding. The image appears naturally clean without any signs of excessive digital scrubbing, ensuring a visual presentation free from specks, hairs, or other imperfections typical in older films. Overall, this video presentation is superbly executed and truly elevates the viewing experience.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Only Yesterday" leverages a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix for the Japanese track and a DTS 2.0 mix for the English track, in line with previous Ghibli releases such as "My Neighbor Totoro." The 2.0 soundscapes are not designed to provide a dynamic, immersive experience but capture the delicate, introspective ambiance of the film effectively. Dialogue clarity is a standout feature in both language tracks, with the Japanese mix delivering slightly more volume compared to its English counterpart. Scoring is both supportive and evocative, with precise instrumentation that enhances the film's emotional tone.

Atmospheric details, while subtle, are presented with remarkable precision. Group activity and ambient sounds, like train movements, are rendered effectively, conveying a sense of realism. Transitions between scenes benefit from well-executed stereo effects, such as sounds moving logically across the soundstage, providing a satisfying auditory element without overwhelming the viewer. Although a full surround sound remix might be desired by some enthusiasts, the existing stereo mix accomplishes an excellent rendition that aligns with the film’s softer, reflective mood.

The Blu-ray of "Only Yesterday" offers a compelling array of extras that significantly enhance understanding and appreciation of the film. These features provide in-depth insights into the production process, the creative dynamics within Studio Ghibli, and the complexities of translating the film for Western audiences. The "Feature-Length Storyboards" present the movie in its raw, storyboard form, available in both Japanese and English audio tracks. The "Making Of" documentary is particularly valuable, delving into the collaboration between Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata and revealing the intricate production challenges faced by the animation team. Interviews with voice cast members Daisy Ridley, Dev Patel, and Ashley Eckstein, along with an in-depth discussion from the English dub team, offer additional perspectives. A collection of trailers and TV spots rounds out the offerings.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feature-Length Storyboards: The entire movie presented in storyboard form.
• Making Of: Detailed exploration of the production process and Studio Ghibli's inner workings.
• Behind the Scenes with the Voice Cast: Interviews with English dub cast about their roles.
• Interview with the English Dub Team: Discussion on the challenges of dubbing and bringing the movie to North America.
• Foreign Trailers and TV Spots: Japanese promotional material.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer for the film.

"Only Yesterday," Studio Ghibli's 1991 gem, finally graces American shores, offering a deeply personal narrative distinct from the studio's typical fantastical forays. Directed by the renowned Isao Takahata, the film intricately explores the emotional landscape of a woman, Taeko, reflecting on her past. Voiced by Daisy Ridley in the English dub, Taeko’s journey from a bustling Tokyo life to the serene countryside evokes a seamless blend of nostalgia and introspection. As she assists in the safflower harvest, her mind wanders back to her childhood in the 1960s, unraveling memories marked by innocence, curiosity, and growth. The animation, characterized by Ghibli's distinct style, is deceptively complex and brimming with subtle nuances that give life to Taeko's inner world.

The film artfully intertwines two timelines, showcasing Taeko's turbulent pre-teen years alongside her current self-discovery. Childhood challenges such as school struggles, puberty anxieties, and familial pressures are exquisitely depicted, highlighting Ghibli's knack for capturing relatable human experiences. Taeko's friendship with Toshio (voiced by Dev Patel) in the present day unfolds with a quiet charm, influenced by her reflective journey through past memories. This coming-of-age drama is deliberately paced, eschewing typical animated film conventions for a more grounded approach that resonates with its audience on a deeply personal level.

"Only Yesterday" stands out for its profound exploration of memory and identity, targeting adult viewers while remaining accessible to a broader audience. The film’s animation style, though minimalist compared to contemporary CGI standards, conveys rich emotional depth and authenticity that bring Taeko's story to life. Studio Ghibli’s enduring tradition of portraying female protagonists with depth is evident here, making this film a timeless treasure in their storied catalog.

Only Yesterday captures the essence of Ghibli’s meticulous storytelling with its heartfelt narrative and distinctive animation style. The film dives deep into the human experience, striking a balance between nostalgia and personal growth. Taeko’s journey of self-discovery, as she reminisces on her childhood years, is poignantly captured through various artistic techniques that elucidate her emotional turmoil and the poignant memories that shape her present life. The animation splendidly blends realism with the magical touch characteristic of Studio Ghibli, making it both visually captivating and emotionally resonant.

The audio and video quality of the Blu-ray release are of high standards, reflecting the care taken in remastering the film for optimal viewing. The lush landscapes and meticulously crafted scenes showcase the stylistic brilliance of Isao Takahata, with each frame inviting viewers to immerse themselves in Taeko's world. The sound design complements the visual aesthetics beautifully, ensuring that every whisper of a breeze and every musical score enhances the overall viewing experience. Special features are notably solid, providing insightful behind-the-scenes glimpses and enriching the appreciation of the film’s craftsmanship.

Only Yesterday retains a few pop culture touches that probably made more sense in 1991, but its heartbreak is universal, isolating traumatic incidents and friendly mischief that shapes identity, with Taeko longing to restore the sense of adventure she shared as a kid. It's amazing how easily the picture taps into primal feelings, helping to understand Taeko's mission as she files through a particular time, finding restoration in the strangest of places. Only Yesterday is beautiful, patient work, adding to the Studio Ghibli tower of achievements, offering a riveting break from the more fantastical titles typically imported to local art-houses. Here, the concentration is on the human experience, with all its fragility and growth. Takahata constructs a cinematic time machine that's nearly impossible to resist.