Performance & Direction: Big Joys, Small Sorrows Review
Last updated: January 25, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows (1986) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Big Joys, Small Sorrows features a noteworthy lineup led by Gō Katō . Supported by the likes of Hitoshi Ueki and Reiko Ōhara , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Big Joys, Small Sorrows (1986) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.0/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Story & Plot Summary: Big Joys, Small Sorrows
Quick Plot Summary: Big Joys, Small Sorrows is a Drama film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: Big Joys, Small Sorrows
Ending Breakdown: Big Joys, Small Sorrows concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Big Joys, Small Sorrows reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Big Joys, Small Sorrows?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Top Cast: Big Joys, Small Sorrows
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Where to Watch Big Joys, Small Sorrows Online?
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Criterion ChannelBig Joys, Small Sorrows Parents Guide & Age Rating
1986 AdvisoryWondering about Big Joys, Small Sorrows age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Big Joys, Small Sorrows is 129 minutes (2h 9m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.0/10, and global performance metrics, Big Joys, Small Sorrows is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1986 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows worth watching?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Big Joys, Small Sorrows parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Big Joys, Small Sorrows identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Big Joys, Small Sorrows?
The total duration of Big Joys, Small Sorrows is 129 minutes, which is approximately 2h 9m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
