Only Yesterday

In the heart of bustling Tokyo, “Only Yesterday” follows the bittersweet journey of Taeko, a 27-year-old office worker who feels increasingly disconnected from the life she has created. Despite her successful career as a graphic designer, she finds herself questioning the choices that led her away from her childhood dreams. Yearning for something more fulfilling, Taeko decides to take a nostalgic trip to her family’s rural hometown in the countryside during the summer vacation.

As she immerses herself in the verdant landscapes of the past, memories start to bubble to the surface, transporting her back to her 10-year-old self. Through vivid flashbacks, we meet the spirited young Taeko, a daydreamer occupied by the joys and challenges of childhood: her first crush, the pressures of school, and the warmth of family bonds. The film artfully weaves between the carefree days of her youth and the stark realities of adulthood, exploring themes of identity, nostalgia, and the complexities of growing up.

In the countryside, she reconnects with old friends, including her childhood neighbor, Toshio, who now runs a local farm. Their friendship, initially strained by years of separation, blossoms anew as they share laughs, secrets, and the shared weight of their respective ambitions. As they work together during the harvest season, Taeko is drawn not only to the beauty of rural life but also to the simplicity and authenticity that it offers—something she finds herself increasingly yearning for in her city life.

Through encounters with vibrant locals and moments of reflection, Taeko begins to confront her fears and regrets. She grapples with her past decisions while realizing that the journey to self-discovery is often more important than the destination. As the summer sun sets on her visit, Taeko must face the question: can she reconcile her past with her present, and how can she chart a path that honors both?

“Only Yesterday” is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, growth, and the power of memory, celebrating the moments that shape who we are. It’s a heartfelt reminder that, while yesterday may be gone, it profoundly influences the choices we make today.