Paixão Juvenil (1956)

Since nothing has been written yet, let's do justice to the movie... or maybe the novel's writer?

Some background to this movie has to be sketched before one could evaluate it. The novel was written by a popular author Ishihara Shintaro. He was/is such an important writer that is was decided to make to movie before the novel was finished. More over his brother played one of the main not very graceful roles.
It is also important to note that the movie depicts the 50's movement, sort of created by Ishihara, called taiyozoku (??? - Sun Tribe), which more or less represents the ideology of freedom and recklessness among youths (it would be great exaggeration to call them Japanese Hippies), that was heavily inspired by the American influence.

Now, back to the movie itself. Having said about taiyozoku, watching the movie you won't find much Japanese culture here. The action takes place on the sea shore, setting the movie into some kind of Hawaiian-like atmosphere (there are even some foreigners). The story revolves mainly around three young well situated people: two brothers and a young lady who both of them fancy and who isn't a saint one. After the plot gets more intense a Hitchcock ending comes, not fully unexpected.

Technically, you have to remember that it is a middle 50's movie, still it is quite awkwardly edited, and that can put you to sleep some times, but the typical music will keep you awake.

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Stands the test of time

Although made in the late 1950’s this movie still stands the test of time. The acting and aesthetic is very retro, but is authentic enough to make it enjoyable. The role of the female lead and her portrayal of it is good enough to carry the whole movie. I imagine that the subject matter was quite controversial for its time, and despite the lack of nudity still feels compelling today.

If you’re looking for a graphically sexual movie, then this is not it. If your looking for a glimpse into the past with a dramatic scandal that is entertaining and enjoyable, then it’s worth the less than hour and a half to watch.

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