Making 'Still Walking'

Still Walking chronicles the Yokoyama family as they gather for their annual reunion to commemorate the death of the eldest son, Junpei, who drowned 15 years prior. Over the course of a single day, simmering tensions, unspoken regrets, and the weight of parental expectations surface, particularly between the pragmatic father, Kyōhei, a retired doctor, and his drifting sons, Ryota and Yoichi. The film delicately portrays the complex dynamics of family life, the lingering pain of loss, and the quiet resilience found in everyday interactions.

Still Walking was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its poignant and realistic portrayal of family life, masterful direction, and subtle emotional depth. Critics praised its ability to capture the nuances of human relationships and the bittersweet nature of memory and reconciliation, earning it a strong reputation as one of Kore-eda's most moving works.

• Praised for its authentic and deeply human portrayal of family dynamics.

• Kore-eda's direction is lauded for its subtle observational style and emotional resonance.

• The film beautifully captures the complexities of grief, memory, and unspoken familial tensions.

Google audience: Google users found 'Still Walking' to be a deeply touching and realistic portrayal of family life, appreciating its honest depiction of everyday struggles and emotional complexities. Many highlighted the film's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet reflection on relationships.

Winner of the Best Film award at the 2008 Hochi Film Awards. Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival.

Director Hirokazu Kore-eda based the film on his own childhood experiences and family dynamics, drawing inspiration from his mother's cooking and the atmosphere of his family gatherings.