A single mother becomes suspicious when her typically reserved son starts exhibiting peculiar behaviour. Upon learning that a teacher might be involved, she confronts those in charge at the school. However, as the narrative unfolds from the perspectives of the mother, teacher, and child, the truth gradually surfaces. A humanistic and gently powerful family drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda (Shoplifters, Still Walking), co-written by award-winning playwright Yuji Sakamoto, and featuring Ryuichi Sakamoto’s poignant final score.

Reviews

‘The performances drawn from child actors Kurokawa and Hinata Hiiragi are perfect, while their section of the film takes place in colours so bold and vivid it feels as if only children see the world that way. Thanks to Kore-eda, so can we.’
★★★★★
Danny Leigh, The FT

‘As you’d expect from Kore-eda, it’s all told with the utmost detail and care, and a gentle score from the late Ryuichi Sakamoto only adds to the overarching air of thoughtfulness and empathy.’
★★★★
Dave Calhoun, Time Out