This lovely depiction of everyday life was produced by Toho Eiga in 1940. A year before, Japan had passed a severe film law, which turned the country's cinematic output more nationalistic and militaristic, to support the fighting spirit. Yet there were also more humane films like this, the 9th directorial work by Yamamoto Satsuo. Yamamoto would, after the war, become best known for his anti-establishment films, to which "Soyokaze chichi to tomo ni" (Gentle Breeze With Father, 1940) bares little resemblance. The film was written by Naruse Mikio, by then a much more famous filmmaker, whose career was heading into a slump called the "1940's". Yamamoto and Naruse knew each other, as Yamamoto had started his career as Naruse's 2nd director. Considering that Naruse would venture into very bleak territory with his films from the 1950's, this film doesn't resemble his best-known works either, though it does sit well with the films Naruse was turning out in late 30's and early 40's.The film is a nice, warm-hearted starring vehicle for Takamine Hideko, who would become one of Japan's best-known actresses, much thanks to her presence in about 20 Naruse films. In 1940, she was 16, but had worked in the industry for 11 years. This film gives a lively role for her, which brings to mind her later tomboy presence in Ozu's "Munekata kyodai" (The Munekata Sisters, 1950). Even her name character name is Hideko. Our protagonist is a teenage girl who goes to school and lives with her father and brother. The father is absent from home every now and then, so one night Hideko follows him and finds him drinking in a bar. She goes on to discover things, and through their later confrontations this film becomes a father-daughter dramedy about their relationship.This film is kept brief with its 69 minute running time, which it carries very well. Takamine is superb and likable as the lead, and there were plenty of good scenes for her. The copy I watched from YouTube was in dire need of restoration. Since this is a good film, with a famous actress, I hope it gets it.