The Shoplifters

In the bustling heart of Tokyo, a man and a woman barely scrape by through petty shoplifting. Their makeshift family, bound by affection rather than blood, includes a young boy and an elderly woman. When a harsh winter brings a new hardship, their precarious existence is threatened, forcing them to confront the moral complexities of their chosen way of life and the true meaning of family.

Hirokazu Kore-eda's Palme d'Or-winning drama, 'Shoplifters,' was met with widespread critical acclaim for its compassionate portrayal of a marginalized family living outside societal norms. Critics lauded its nuanced performances, delicate direction, and profound exploration of poverty, morality, and the definition of family.

• A deeply moving and ethically complex examination of a non-traditional family.

• Masterful direction and poignant performances draw viewers into the lives of societal outsiders.

• Praised for its subtle storytelling and profound insights into poverty and human connection.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally praise 'Shoplifters' for its emotional depth and thought-provoking narrative. Many viewers found the film to be incredibly touching and were impressed by the nuanced portrayal of the characters' struggles and their strong bonds, despite their difficult circumstances.

Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival (2018), Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards (2019).

Director Hirokazu Kore-eda stated that the initial inspiration for 'Shoplifters' came from news reports about welfare fraud cases in Japan.