They Say Nothing Stays the Same

They Say Nothing Stays the Same

Year: 2021

Runtime: 137 min

Language: Japanese

Drama

In 19th century Japan, a serene ferryman's existence is disrupted when a bridge threatens to obsolete his traditional livelihood, connecting isolated communities. But his tranquility is also shaken by a chance encounter with a enigmatic young woman he rescues from the waters, forever altering the course of his life and the fabric of his quiet world.

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Timeline & Setting – They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021)
Explore the full timeline and setting of They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Unspecified late 20th century

The story unfolds in a time when small communities are feeling the impact of modern developments, such as the construction of bridges. This transitional period highlights the clash between nature and manmade progress, illuminating the struggles of traditional ways of life against an evolving backdrop.

Location

Serene River, Forest, Riverside Community

The serene river is a mystical waterway that serves as both a means of livelihood and a backdrop for despair and intrigue. Nearby woods hold deep secrets, becoming the final resting place for a beloved elder, indicating their spiritual importance. The riverside community is on the brink of change with the construction of a new bridge, causing tension between modernity and tradition.

🌊 River 🌲 Forest 🏡 Community

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Main Characters – They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021)
Meet the key characters of They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Toichi

Toichi is a humble ferryman whose life revolves around the river he navigates daily. He possesses a nurturing side, as evidenced by his decision to care for the ghostly girl he discovers. However, Toichi's choices lead to dire consequences, revealing his inner conflict and the weight of responsibility he bears as events unfold.

🛥️ Ferryman 🌊 Caregiver 🥺 Troubled

Genzo

Genzo is Toichi's young neighbor and often serves as a catalyst for dark thoughts and reckless ideas. His arrogance and desire for revenge reveal a lack of foresight, creating a stark contrast to Toichi's more contemplative nature. As events unfold, he becomes a tragic figure whose decisions lead to his own demise.

🚶‍♂️ Neighbor 🤔 Reckless ⚡ Impulsive

Foo

Foo is a mysterious girl who embodies silence and intrigue. Her ethereal presence raises questions about her past and the tragedy she embodies due to her connection with the river. Throughout the film, she remains an enigma, symbolizing lost lives and the weight of unfinished stories.

👻 Mysterious ❄️ Silent 🎭 Enigma

Nihei's Father

Nihei's Father is a respected elder who passes away with a poignant final wish, reflecting the themes of respect for tradition and filial duty. His character adds depth to the community and serves as a moral compass for Toichi, whose actions are influenced by the elder’s selflessness.

👴 Elder 🕊️ Selfless 🪦 Departed

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

Major Themes – They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021)
Explore the central themes of They Say Nothing Stays the Same (2021), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌌 Supernatural

The supernatural theme is presented through the presence of a ghostly figure in the river, representing the thin veil between life and death. This spectral entity forces the characters, especially Toichi, to confront their choices and the consequences that arise from tampering with fate. The eerie atmosphere is intensified by moments of stillness and silence that evoke a sense of foreboding.

💔 Tragedy

The narrative explores deep-seated tragedy as families are torn apart by unexpected deaths and the haunting memories they leave behind. The character of Toichi grapples with the ramifications of his actions in the face of loss, illustrating how quickly life can spiral into despair. The tragic events culminate in a series of irreversible decisions that dramatically alter the lives of the characters involved.

⚖️ Choices

Central to the film is the theme of choices, underscoring how seemingly small decisions can lead to monumental consequences. Toichi's intervention with the ghostly girl ushers in a string of tragic outcomes, questioning the morality behind his desire to save her. The film prompts viewers to reflect on the weight of their choices and the lives they impact.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 23:09

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