Winter Inn

A film that begins with wit and comedy when a husband tries to hide and mask his drinking, which his Jesus freak and very Christian wife dislikes, by gargling and other methods, turns somber when the man loses his job after being fired. He attempts to keep us appearances by having parties and still going to night clubs, which means money is even more of a short supply. He turns to gambling and the race horse tracks as a result.

Directed by Shirō Toyoda, Winter Inn leans on a strong ensemble — Yōtarō Katsumi, Yoko Mizumachi, Setsuko Hara — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about comedy titles of 1938.