Oscar-Winning Director Hirokazu Kore-eda Tapped to Helm Live-Action Adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto's 'Look Back'

The acclaimed manga Look Back, penned by the celebrated creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, is making a monumental leap to the silver screen under the guidance of cinematic master Hirokazu Kore-eda. Known globally for his deeply moving and award-laden works, including the Palme d'Or winner Shoplifters, Kore-eda brings his signature touch of emotional nuance and profound human observation to this highly anticipated live-action project. This collaboration signifies a major convergence point in Japanese media, uniting the power of contemporary manga storytelling with one of the nation’s most revered directors.

Look Back is a heartfelt coming-of-age narrative centered around two young girls who share an intense aspiration: to become successful manga artists. The story meticulously charts their challenging yet rewarding path of artistic collaboration, self-discovery, and personal transformation. It delves into universal themes of ambition, the complexity of creative partnership, and the enduring strength of friendship, forming the compelling emotional core that resonated deeply with readers worldwide.

To ensure the adaptation maintains absolute authenticity and atmospheric integrity, principal photography was conducted in Nikaho City, a breathtaking coastal municipality situated in the northwest region of Japan. This meticulous choice of location underscores the production team’s dedication to capturing the genuine spirit and cultural context of Fujimoto’s original work, promising audiences a visually stunning and culturally rich cinematic experience.

Kore-eda’s involvement guarantees an adaptation rich in thoughtful artistic direction, employing his renowned ability to capture the subtle complexities of interpersonal relationships. Scheduled for a 2026 release, this film is poised to be a standout entry in the successful global trend of manga-to-live-action projects. Fans of Fujimoto’s seminal work and enthusiasts of world-class Japanese cinema alike can look forward to experiencing Look Back reimagined, honoring the source material while delivering fresh, unforgettable perspectives tailored for the big screen.