Ryota Bando takes on his first solo leading role as Subaru, the protagonist in this powerful human drama. Known for his remarkable range and commanding screen presence, Bando continues to gain acclaim as one of Japan’s most promising young actors.
Playing Subaru’s late girlfriend is Nanase Nishino, a multi-talented performer active in both film and theater. Subaru’s mother is portrayed by Kaho Minami, whose work extends internationally. The film also features a strong supporting cast of veteran actors, including Kanji Tsuda, Yoshinori Okada, and Morio Kazama.
The film is directed and written by Yu Sakudo, an emerging talent who has received numerous awards at international film festivals. His VR film Thank You for Sharing Your World was officially selected for the Venice Immersive section at the 79th Venice International Film Festival. This marks his feature-length debut with an original screenplay.
In recent years, the concept of grief care has been gaining recognition in Japan. Grief—a deep sorrow that may never fully heal—touches each person differently. This film tells a hopeful and deeply personal story about navigating loss. Through the support of those around him, Subaru begins to walk the difficult path toward healing, however clumsily. His journey is portrayed with honesty, imagination, and heart.
Subaru Morishita is preparing to marry his girlfriend Miki, with whom he has shared three loving years. But one day, Miki dies suddenly in a tragic car accident.
Overwhelmed by unspeakable grief and shock, Subaru drifts through his days in a daze. At the urging of his mother, Yoko, he returns to his hometown of Gifu for the first time in years.
Yoko, too, carries deep emotional scars—she lost her husband in an unexpected accident and has never fully healed.
Subaru believes his sorrow will never fade. But through a mysterious and unexpected experience, he slowly begins to confront Miki’s death—and to find a way forward.
