In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, Hirokazu Koreeda has once again proven his mastery with Look Back a film that feels like a breath of fresh air. After a period of mixed reviews following his Palme d’Or win for Shoplifters in 2018, Koreeda returns to the intimate storytelling that first captivated audiences. Look Back an adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto’s one-shot manga, is a heartwarming tale of friendship and creativity that resonates deeply with fans of Koreeda’s earlier work.
The film follows two artistically gifted girls, Fujino and Kyomoto, as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood. Their journey begins with anonymous four-panel sketches for their classmates, evolving into a deep artistic collaboration. The film’s central themes revolve around the intricate process of creating manga, making it a compelling exploration of the artistic journey.
The Artistic Process and Emotional Depth
The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of the artistic process. Koreeda captures the painstaking work of drawing with a level of care that borders on ASMR. One memorable scene shows Fujino’s pencil dramatically cracking while adding a bold vertical shading line, a moment that underscores the meticulous nature of their craft. This attention to detail extends to the film’s cinematography, shot on 35mm by DP Senzo Ueno, which adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the story.
The duo’s first significant project, a seaside tale that ends with a stunning two-page spread of a young man looking out to sea, catches the attention of Weekly Shōnen Jump. The film’s many exquisite moments include a shot of the two girls reacting to seeing their names in print for the first time, a scene that is both touching and inspiring. As their artistic ambitions begin to diverge, the film takes a few narrative turns that will surprise those unfamiliar with Fujimoto’s anime.
The Cast and Their Performances
The film’s success is largely due to its central quartet: Fūri Nanase and Rokka Okada, who play Fujino and Kyomoto in their younger years, and Natsuki Deguchi and Aju Makita, who take on the roles as they grow into young adults. Fujino, the more outgoing of the two, is the film’s driving force in the early scenes. Her encounter with Kyomoto, who appears to have a form of agoraphobia, sets the stage for their inseparable bond. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making their friendship the heart of the film.
The supporting cast also shines, particularly Masaki Suda as the awestruck editor of Weekly Shōnen Jump. His kind and supportive turn adds depth to the story, highlighting the impact of their artistic journey on those around them.
The Visual and Auditory Experience
The film’s visual beauty is complemented by a delicate score from Yuta Bandoh, who also worked on Belle and assisted Joe Hisaishi on The Boy and the Heron. The lilting guitar and subtle bells create a transcendent delicacy that perfectly matches Koreeda’s images. The film’s collection of trains, street scenes, and wide-open skies is enough to warm the heart and soothe the soul, making it a delightful return to form for Koreeda.
Look Back premiered at the 2026 Venice film festival and will be released by GKIDS. It is a film that should not be missed, offering a heartfelt journey through art and friendship that will stay with audiences long after the credits roll.
