The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (1959) movie poster

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love

1959 · 204 min · Director: Masaki Kobayashi

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (1959) is a war drama, directed by Masaki Kobayashi. It stars Tatsuya Nakadai and Michiyo Aratama. It unfolds against the backdrop of World War II. The 204-minute film holds an audience score of 8.1/10.

What The Human Condition I: No Greater Love Is About

In occupied Manchuria an idealistic Japanese man accepts a posting to improve conditions for labourers at a mine, in exchange for exemption from military service. This is the first of Masaki Kobayashi's three films, and from beginning to end it asks one question: can you remain a good man while staying inside the system? Its answer is merciless. Across nearly three hours every well meant intervention ends in either a loss or a concession. The black and white photography favours very wide frames, keeping people small inside the landscape they are trying to change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Human Condition I: No Greater Love about?

In occupied Manchuria an idealistic Japanese man accepts a posting to improve conditions for labourers at a mine, in exchange for exemption from military service. This is the first of Masaki Kobayashi's three films, and from beginning to end it asks one question: can you remain a good man while staying inside the system?

Where can I watch The Human Condition I: No Greater Love?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love is available to watch on digital platforms such as Criterion Channel. Current rent and buy options are listed in the "Where to Watch" section on this page.

How long is The Human Condition I: No Greater Love?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love runs for 204 minutes (3h 24m).

When did The Human Condition I: No Greater Love come out?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love was released in 1959.

Who directed The Human Condition I: No Greater Love?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love was directed by Masaki Kobayashi.

Who stars in The Human Condition I: No Greater Love?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love stars Tatsuya Nakadai, Michiyo Aratama, Chikage Awashima, Ineko Arima.

What is The Human Condition I: No Greater Love's rating?

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love holds 8.5/10 on IMDb and 8.1/10 on TMDB. Its Pulse Score is 89 out of 100.

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