Close-Knit

A young girl, Tomo, is left to fend for herself when her mother abandons her. She finds an unlikely guardian in her uncle, Yori, and his transgender partner, Rinko. As Tomo adjusts to her new life, she begins to understand love and family in ways she never imagined. The film explores themes of acceptance, unconventional families, and the courage to be oneself.

Close-Knit received widespread critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a non-traditional family and its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. Critics praised the film's warmth, emotional depth, and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Kaho Minami as Rinko. It was lauded for its gentle approach to complex social issues, resonating with both critics and audiences.

• A tender and heartwarming exploration of family and acceptance.
• Praised for its sensitive handling of LGBTQ+ themes and character development.
• The performances, especially that of Kaho Minami, were highlighted as a significant strength.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly appreciated the film's heartwarming story and its positive message about family and acceptance. Many found the characters relatable and the overall tone uplifting, with a particular fondness for the evolving relationships depicted.

Winner of the Teddy Jury Award at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival. Nominated for Best Film at the 10th Asian Film Awards.

The film's director, Naoko Ogigami, chose to focus on the quiet, everyday moments of the characters' lives to emphasize the normalcy and beauty of their unconventional family structure.