Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Big Joys, Small Sorrows is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 129 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Big Joys, Small Sorrows Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1986, Big Joys, Small Sorrows enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on A lighthouse keeper and his family follow work from town to town, each time making new friends and receiving a visit from his troublesome father. Under the direction of Keisuke Kinoshita, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Gō Katō. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Big Joys, Small Sorrows offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 129-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Big Joys, Small Sorrows resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Big Joys, Small Sorrows is available for streaming on Criterion Channel. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Big Joys, Small Sorrows centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. A lighthouse keeper and his family follow work from town to town, each time making new friends and receiving a visit from his troublesome father. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1986 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Big Joys, Small Sorrows has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Big Joys, Small Sorrows sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Big Joys, Small Sorrows (1986): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Where to Watch Big Joys, Small Sorrows Online?
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Criterion ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
Big Joys, Small Sorrows has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, Big Joys, Small Sorrows stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1986 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows movie hit or flop?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows worth watching?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Big Joys, Small Sorrows online?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is currently available for streaming on Criterion Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Criterion Channel depending on your region.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows movie hit or flop?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows worth watching?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Big Joys, Small Sorrows online?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is currently available for streaming on Criterion Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Criterion Channel depending on your region.
What is the story of Big Joys, Small Sorrows?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is a Drama movie that follows: A lighthouse keeper and his family follow work from town to town, each time making new friends and receiving a visit from his troublesome father....
Is Big Joys, Small Sorrows family friendly?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is classified as Drama. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Big Joys, Small Sorrows available in?
Big Joys, Small Sorrows is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A lighthouse keeper and his family follow work from town to town, each time making new friends and receiving a visit from his troublesome father.
Critic Reviews
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