Only Yesterday (1991) Parents Guide: Is the movie OK for kids?

Bontent's parent guide suggests Only Yesterday is best for ages 10+. It's rated PG. Primarily a gentle, nostalgic drama, a PG rating was assigned to "Only Yesterday" for its mature thematic material. The film is a slow, character-driven story about a woman named Taeko reflecting on her childhood, and…

Only Yesterday is officially rated PG. Bontent's independent parent guide recommends it for ages 10+.

Primarily a gentle, nostalgic drama, a PG rating was assigned to "Only Yesterday" for its mature thematic material. The film is a slow, character-driven story about a woman named Taeko reflecting on her childhood, and its content concerns are specific and few. Parents should be aware of a frank classroom discussion…

Content is very mild and pertains to puberty, not sexuality. In a flashback, 10-year-old schoolgirls learn about and discuss menstruation ('getting their period'), which may lead to questions from younger viewers. A childhood crush is also depicted with…

There is one brief but notable scene of parental discipline. In a flashback, following a family argument, 10-year-old Taeko is slapped hard across the face by her father. This is the film's only moment of physical violence.

Language is not a concern. There is no profanity used in the film.

Substance use is minimal and incidental. Adults are briefly shown drinking beer or sake during meals and social gatherings, which is depicted as a normal part of life.

The film is built on mature, introspective themes suitable for older children and teens. It deals with the emotional complexities of growing up, including family conflict and the sting of parental disapproval. Social hierarchies and ostracism are explored in…

Only Yesterday runs 119 minutes, directed by Isao Takahata, released in 1991.

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