Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda has a unique ability to make audiences feel instantly connected to his stories. His films evoke the warmth of speaking to a beloved family member or a childhood friend, someone who truly understands and embraces you. Kore-eda’s work is a testament to the power of storytelling, capturing the essence of human existence and the intricate web of family relationships.
In a world where we often overlook the ordinary, Kore-eda’s films remind us to pause and reflect on the small, everyday moments that shape our lives. His stories delve into the complexities of family dynamics, exploring the emotional baggage that comes with these relationships. From the joy and warmth to the sadness and loss, Kore-eda’s cinema encapsulates the full spectrum of human emotions.
Themes of family and loss
Kore-eda’s films often revolve around the theme of family, whether it’s the traditional nuclear family or the unconventional found family. His 2018 film Shoplifters which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes, tells the story of a found family who survive by shoplifting. Despite their unconventional lifestyle, the film beautifully portrays the pathos of family, highlighting that it’s not always about blood relations but about choice, mutual growth, and the aspiration for safety.
Another notable work is Like Father, Like Son (2013), which explores the dilemma of a couple who discover their child was swapped at birth. This film, which won the Jury Prize at Cannes, delves into the complexities of parenthood and the impact of family relationships on one’s identity. Similarly, Still Walking (2008) tells the story of a patriarch grappling with the loss of his son and his strained relationship with the remaining child.
Exploring different perspectives
Kore-eda’s films often experiment with structure and perspective, offering a Rashomon-like exploration of emotions. Nobody Knows (2004) is a powerful film seen through the lens of a young boy, telling the story of four siblings abandoned by their mother. This film, which propelled Yuya Yagira to stardom, is a moving exploration of resilience and the weight of responsibility.
In his 2026 film Monster Kore-eda explores the story of a single mother who fears her son is being abused by his teacher. The film unfolds through three shifting perspectives, revealing hidden truths about loneliness, harmful assumptions, and the nature of monstrosity. This film, which was a massive success, showcases Kore-eda’s ability to adapt his style to different cultures and languages.
Innovative storytelling and unique approaches
Kore-eda’s filmography is diverse, with each film bringing something new to the table. His early work Maborosi (1995) is a poetic exploration of grief and loneliness, while The Third Murder (2017) offers a unique take on the thriller genre. Broker (2026) fearlessly explores controversial aspects of South Korean society, and After Life (1998) is a contemplative work about what happens after death.
Kore-eda’s ability to adapt his style to different formats is evident in his Netflix series Asura (2026). This straight-to-streaming production reunites him with some of his favorite actresses and showcases his talent for long-form storytelling. His upcoming film Sheep in the Box (2026), which premiered at Cannes, explores the theme of grief and the use of technology to recreate what has been lost.
Unique risks and creative approaches
Kore-eda is known for taking creative risks in his films. Air Doll (2009) is a film about a sex doll come-to-life, exploring the boundary between the natural and the artificial. This film, which feels just as relevant today, delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal preconceptions. On the other hand, Our Little Sister (2015) is a heartwarming film about three sisters who welcome a younger half-sister they never knew existed. This film, which is the closest Kore-eda has come to the warmth and charm of Studio Ghibli, is a beautiful exploration of family dynamics.
Kore-eda’s films rarely have perfect, happy endings, but they always bring a sense of comfort and emotional journey. His stories are a testament to the power of storytelling, capturing the essence of human existence and the intricate web of family relationships. As we eagerly await his upcoming adaptation of Look Back we can only hope that Kore-eda continues to explore the profound themes of family and loss in his future works.
