Daddy I Love Him

A single father, Kenji, finds his quiet life disrupted when his adult daughter, Sakura, moves back home unexpectedly after a career setback. As they navigate their complicated relationship and differing life philosophies, Kenji also grapples with a budding romance with his neighbor, a free-spirited artist. The film explores themes of family, independence, and finding love at any age.

Daddy I Love Him received a mixed but generally positive reception, with critics praising its heartwarming story and strong performances, particularly from the lead actors. Some noted a predictable plot, but the emotional core resonated with audiences, leading to strong word-of-mouth.

• Praised for its touching portrayal of family dynamics and intergenerational connection.

• Appreciated for its lighthearted humor and optimistic outlook on love and life.

• Some critics found the narrative pacing a bit uneven and the plot resolutions too convenient.

Google audience: Audiences loved the film's emotional depth and relatable characters, particularly appreciating the father-daughter relationship and the positive message about second chances at love. Some viewers felt the plot could have been more original, but the overall sentiment was overwhelmingly positive.

Nominated for Best Actor and Best Screenplay at the Japan Academy Film Prize Awards.

The film's director, Fumiko Ishii, drew inspiration for the story from her own experiences with her adult children returning home during the pandemic.