Sayonara (1957): cast, story & where to watch
1957 · Film · ★ 6.6
Released in 1957, Sayonara is a drama and romance film directed by Joshua Logan, running about 147 minutes. “"I am not allowed to love. But I will love you if that is your desire..."” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Air Force Major Lloyd Gruver (Marlon Brando) is reassigned to a Japanese air base, and is confronted with US racial prejudice against the Japanese people. The issue is compounded because a number of the soldiers become romantically involved with Japanese women, in defiance of US military policy. Ordinarily an officer who is by-the-book, Gruver must take a position when a buddy of his, an enlisted man Joe Kelly (Red Buttons) falls in love with a Japanese woman Katsumi (Miyoshi Umeki) and marries her. Gruver risks his position by serving as best man at the wedding ceremony.
Who’s in it. Sayonara stars Marlon Brando as Major Lloyd Gruver, Patricia Owens as Eileen Webster, James Garner as Capt. Mike Bailey and Martha Scott as Mrs. Webster, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.6/10, Sayonara has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Sayonara page.
If you liked it. Fans of Sayonara tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Sayonara (1957)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Sayonara change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Sayonara worth watching?
- Sayonara holds an audience score of 6.6 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and romance. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Sayonara?
- Sayonara stars Marlon Brando, Patricia Owens, James Garner, Martha Scott and Miiko Taka.
- When was Sayonara released?
- Sayonara was released in 1957, with a runtime of about 147 minutes.