Leaving Home
Leaving Home

Leaving Home

2020Movie95 minJapanese

Ten years ago Keisuke went to Tokyo to become a musician. He receives a call from his far off hometown informing him of the funeral for his older brother who went missing while fishing at sea. Having lied he achieved success in Tokyo, Keisuke is hesitant but nevertheless returns home. Gathered at his parent's house are his father who lives alone; his brother's ex-wife; Hiroshi, a classmate who was the last to see his brother; and Hiroshi's younger sister Nagi who bears a limp.

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Insights

IMDb6.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic62/100
Google Users82%
Director: M.K. HarkooGenres: Drama, Family

Plot Summary

When a teenage boy discovers he's adopted, he grapples with his identity and his place in his family. He embarks on a journey to find his birth mother, uncovering truths about his past that challenge his present. This leads to a profound exploration of belonging, love, and the meaning of family.

Critical Reception

Leaving Home received a generally positive reception from critics and audiences, who praised its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly from the young lead. While some noted a predictable narrative arc, the film's heartfelt exploration of family and identity resonated widely.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive handling of adoption and identity.
  • The performances, especially by the young lead, are highlighted as a significant strength.
  • Some critics found the plot to be somewhat conventional, but the emotional core remains impactful.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's moving portrayal of a young boy's search for his origins and the emotional journey it depicts. Many found the story relatable and the performances compelling, leading to a generally favorable user rating.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in a small, picturesque coastal town, which director M.K. Harkoo felt added to the introspective and atmospheric quality of the story.

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