The Little House (2014 film)

The Little House is a 2014 Japanese historical drama film directed by Yoji Yamada, based on the novel of the same name by Kyoko Nakajima. The film tells the story of Taki Nunomiya, an elderly woman who recounts her life as a young maid in a Tokyo household during the years leading up to and during World War II.

The narrative unfolds through Taki's memoirs, which are discovered and read by her grandnephew, Takeshi. Taki reflects on her experiences working for the Hirai family, specifically the beautiful Tokiko, and the complex relationships within the household. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on ordinary lives, focusing on the subtle observations and unspoken feelings of Taki as she witnesses the unfolding events.

The cast includes Haru Kuroki as young Taki, Takataro Kataoka as Masaomi Hirai, and Hidetaka Yoshioka as Takeshi. The Little House received several awards and nominations, including recognition for Haru Kuroki's performance. It is known for its detailed recreation of the period setting and its poignant portrayal of the characters' emotional lives against the backdrop of historical events.