Norwegian Wood Ending Explained, Plot, Cast, and Streaming Platform
by Ushapriyanga | Updated May 31, 2023
Norwegian Wood Film Info
Norwegian Wood, a Japanese romantic drama film directed by Tran Anh Hung, is based on Haruki Murakami's novel of the same name. It premiered at the 67th Venice International Film Festival, where it competed for the Golden Lion. The film was later released in Japan on December 11, 2010.
After its initial release, Norwegian Wood made its way to the United Kingdom on March 11, 2011, and had a limited release in the United States on January 6, 2012, specifically in New York City and Washington D.C. Canadian audiences had the opportunity to see the film on March 2, 2012.
The Daily Telegraph praised director Tran Anh Hung for his bravery in adapting Haruki Murakami's 1987 novel for the screen. However, the publication noted that the film felt more like a summary of the book rather than a fully realized cinematic experience. Similarly, Stephen Holden of The New York Times described the film as a meandering daydream saturated with melancholic longing, rather than a coherent narrative.
In general terms, Norwegian Wood, directed by Tran Anh Hung, is a 2010 Japanese romantic drama film based on Haruki Murakami's novel. It premiered at the 67th Venice International Film Festival, where it competed for the Golden Lion. The film was subsequently released in Japan on December 11, 2010.
It later reached the United Kingdom on March 11, 2011, and had a limited release in the United States on January 6, 2012, specifically in New York City and Washington D.C. Canadian audiences were able to see the film on March 2, 2012.
Critical reception varied, with The Daily Telegraph commending Tran Anh Hung's courage in bringing Murakami's novel to the screen, though feeling that the film came across as a mere summary. The New York Times described the film as a meandering daydream steeped in mournful yearning, lacking a cohesive narrative structure.
Norwegian Wood Ending Explained
The ending of Norwegian Wood is open to interpretation. Some people believe that Toru Watanabe, the protagonist, eventually finds peace and happiness with Midori, while others believe that he is still haunted by the death of Naoko, his first love.
The novel begins with Toru reflecting on his time at university when he was caught between two women: Naoko, a beautiful and troubled young woman who is still grieving the death of her fiancé, and Midori, a lively and independent young woman who is everything that Naoko is not. Toru eventually chooses Midori, but he is never able to fully let go of Naoko.
The novel ends with Toru standing at Ueno Station, the same place where Naoko committed suicide. He is calling Midori's name, but he is not sure if she can hear him. The novel ends with Toru standing in the "dead center" of the station, surrounded by people who are all heading in different directions.
The ending of Norwegian Wood is a reflection of the novel's themes of loss, grief, and the difficulty of moving on. Toru is still haunted by the death of Naoko, and he is not sure if he will ever be able to find peace. However, the fact that he is calling Midori's name suggests that he is still hopeful for the future.
The ending of Norwegian Wood is a powerful and moving exploration of the human condition. It is a reminder that even in the midst of loss and grief, there is always hope for the future.
Norwegian Wood Movie Plot
"Norwegian Wood" tells the story of Toru Watanabe, a young man living in 1960s Tokyo. After the tragic suicide of his best friend, Kizuki, Toru enters a university in Tokyo to start anew. It is during this time that he coincidentally encounters Naoko, Kizuki's former girlfriend, and they develop a close bond. However, Naoko is deeply affected by Kizuki's death and sinks into a severe depression.
On Naoko's 20th birthday, Toru and Naoko share an intimate moment together. But soon after, Naoko withdraws from society and checks into a remote sanatorium near Kyoto. Toru is torn between his deep feelings for Naoko and her inability to reciprocate. Death surrounds him, while Naoko feels as though a part of her is permanently lost.
Toru continues with his studies and meets Midori, a fellow student who is the polar opposite of Naoko—outgoing, confident, and full of life. As the story unfolds, Toru finds himself torn between these two women and must make a choice between his past and his future.
In a broader sense, "Norwegian Wood" explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. Toru's journey reflects his internal struggle as he grapples with his emotions and faces the challenging decision of who to be with.
The story delves into the contrast between Naoko, a symbol of tragedy and melancholy, and Midori, who represents vitality and self-assurance. Through Toru's experiences, the film examines the universal themes of navigating conflicting emotions and making choices that shape our lives.
Norwegian Wood Movie Cast
Actor/Actress
Character
Kenichi Matsuyama
Watanabe
Rinko Kikuchi
Naoko
Kiko Mizuhara
Midori Kobayashi
Tetsuji Tamayama
Nagasawa
Kengo Kora
Kizuki
Reika Kirishima
Reiko Ishida
Eriko Hatsune
Hatsumi
Shigesato Itoi
Professor
Haruomi Hosono
Record Shop Manager
Yukihiro Takahashi
Gatekeeper
Norwegian Wood Movie Where to Watch?
-
Theatrical Release: "Norwegian Wood" initially premiered in Japan on December 11, 2010. It was released in cinemas across the country, giving audiences the opportunity to watch the film on the big screen.
-
DVD/Blu-ray: Following its theatrical release, "Norwegian Wood" became available on DVD and Blu-ray formats. You can check online retailers or physical stores specializing in movies to find a copy of the film in this format. Please note that availability may vary depending on your location.
-
Online Streaming Platforms: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, "Norwegian Wood" is not available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video. However, streaming availability is subject to change, and it's worth checking these platforms periodically to see if the film becomes available for streaming.
-
Online Rental/Purchase: Alternatively, you may be able to rent or purchase "Norwegian Wood" through online platforms that offer digital rentals or sales of movies. Websites like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, or Vudu often have a selection of films available for digital rental or purchase.
Norwegian Wood Ending Explained-FAQs
"Norwegian Wood" is a Japanese romantic drama film.
"Norwegian Wood" was directed by Tran Anh Hung.
Yes, "Norwegian Wood" is based on the novel of the same name by Haruki Murakami.
The film premiered in Japan on December 11, 2010.