A masterpiece fit to stand beside Tokyo Story, this film is quintessential Ozu. Unique among all filmmakers, Yasujiro Ozu developed a beautifully restrained style by positioning his camera three feet above the floor and rejecting such techniques as the dissolve, pan, and fade. He also avoided excessive plot, concentrating instead on the everyday activities that mold our lives. As a result, his compositions are exquisite and his stories heartfelt. This film focuses on Noriko, a 28-year-old woman who must choose between staying single or marrying the man her family has picked for her. Glimpses into the lives of Noriko's brother, young nephews, and aging parents underscore the conflicts between three generations. Written by Ozu and Kogo Noda and featuring a cast of Ozu regulars, this film is a moving --- and universal --- family portrait.