Take me out to the snowland (1987): Down the snowy slopes

1987 • Yasuo Baba • 1.85:1 • Jump to Gallery ↓
Yasuo Baba’s 1987 romantic comedy Take Me Out to the Snowland is said to have sparked a skiing boom in Japan. With the main character living for skiing, it’s no surprise that the snowy slopes have seduced the public. The story begins with a cute meeting on the mountain around Christmas and ends with a fashion show on Valentine’s Day to introduce a new skiwear line. In between, there’s cosy time at the lodge, meeting friends at the bar and 1980s corporate work.
The film is all about fashion, from the colourful, puffy ski suits to the suits worn by salarymen and some jumpers. However, it’s the snowy landscapes that give the movie its most memorable visuals. Whether it’s going down the mountain during a montage or a romantic encounter on the road at night in front of a light show, it leaves a lasting impression.
The film also made the Toyota Celica GT-Four a popular car at the time. Its serious appeal among young adults at a time of economic prosperity certainly helped Take Me Out to the Snowland become a pop culture classic. And it still makes skiing with friends look really fun.
Technical Specs:
- The Story: A young, unassuming businessman and skiing enthusiast meets a secretary and falls in love with her, but initially struggles to express his feelings. Friends intervene, but business complicates matters until a thrilling snowy trip on Valentine’s Day.
- Actors: Tomoyo Harada, Hiroshi Mikami, Kiwako Harada, Hiroyuki Okita, Hitomi Takahashi, Kunie Tanaka.
- Director: Yasuo Baba
- Year: 1987
- Cinematographer: Motokichi Hasegawa
- Origin: Japanese Cinema
- Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1
- Genre: Romance
