Sorry, this movie sucks

Purely Joyful Movie!

It was OK. I don't see why everyone loves it so much. It wasn't very smart or deep or well-directed.

It’s not bad or unwatchable but despite the amplitude of the spectacle, the end result is underwhelming.

Interesting travelogue, sort of like Cinerama travelogues of the time, with a storyline. The recent showing on TCM was in wide-screen Technirama, probably the only film produced by RKO made in this process. Universal acquired the film for distribution after RKO closed. The titles indicate the film was shot entirely in Japan and for the first time at Japanese cultural and religious shrines which look great in wide-screen. The exteriors look similar to Sayonara (also 1957) during a period when Japan/American relationships were on the mend. Everyone is really nice to one another. Good, colorful family movie, good production values, some spectacular scenery and great print.

Caught this harmless little story on TV recently. In this film we can see Japan in the 1950s before the great economic breakthough. Nostalgic and fascinating period shots of cities, temples, steam trains, geisha houses etc. Better than some documentaries as a record of those times and it was good to see the kindness shown by all the Japanese characters towards the lost American boy. Both kids were sensible and well mannered.

pleasant family fare which also makes an attempt to understand the Japanese & their culture..Attempts might seem dated now but in 1957 Pearl Harbor was still fresh in the minds of Americans..This film tries to overcome the animosities between the nations..Harmless, pleasant well paced and well acted..Jon Provost was a very good young actor.. as was the oriental young boy (sorry dont know his name)

I agree with other reviewers of this film. It is quite good. You can watch it just to see what Japan looked like in the 1950's. You can watch it to see Jon Provost's first role; we remember him from "Lassie". You can enjoy the chase. Pretty cinematography too; filmed in very nice color. Worth watching if you ever see it on cable or dish. Nice movie.