Director Hirokazu Kore-eda is bringing Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga one-shot “Look Back” to live-action, marking his third time working from manga source material.
Bringing Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Manga to Live-Action
Fujimoto’s original one-volume story follows two schoolgirls in western Japan: Fujino and Kyomoto. Kore-eda noted, “I was drawn to the image on the cover — the back of a child who’s sitting drawing manga. I read it all that evening. It’s an incredible manga which I was very moved by.”
“Look Back” is Kore-eda Hirokazu’s third time working from manga source material. The story previously received a 53-minute anime film directed by Kiyotaka Oshiyama.
Casting and Production Process
The film stars Furi Nanase playing Fujino through her tweenage years, while Natsuki Deguchi and Aju Makita play the characters as they turn into other people right in front of our eyes.
Kore-eda’s drama was shot across an entire calendar year, so as to capture the natural dynamism of the Nikaho weather.
Stylistic Choices and Humanism
Known for his films that are often tendered with a limpid beauty, Kore-eda’s subtle visual style is always strictly in service to his humanism, with his 2023 film “Monster” depicting personal struggles. Cinematographer Senzo Ueno shot the drama, featuring an intoxicating mosaic of emerald green fields, periwinkle winter sunsets, and snow so white.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote and directed the live-action “Look Back” film?
Hirokazu Kore-eda served as director for the live-action adaptation.
What is the premise of “Look Back”?
Based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga one-volume story, the tale retells the bittersweet tale of two very different schoolgirls in western Japan who are bonded together by their shared love of comics.
When will the movie be released?
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