Earth (1939) DVD-R

Starring: Isamu Kosugi, Akiko Kazami, Kaichi Yamamoto
Directed by: Tomu Uchida
Print: Black & White
Runtime: 93 minutes
Genre: Drama
Language: Japanese, English subtitles

*Earth* (*Tsuchi*, 1939) is a Japanese drama directed by Tomu Uchida. The film portrays the struggles of a farming family in northern Japan's Tohoku region during the early 20th century. It follows the family's hardships as they contend with debt, natural disasters, and societal pressures. The narrative delves into themes of resilience, familial bonds, and the harsh realities of rural life. Shot over the course of a year without official approval from the Nikkatsu film studio, the film offers a poignant and realistic depiction of peasant life. The 1968 German print, which runs 93 minutes, includes German subtitles, while the 2001 Russian print runs 115 minutes and also includes German subtitles. A composite print from the National Film Archive of Japan combines elements from both versions.