Still Walking (Aruitemo aruitemo) 2008

Ryota (Abe Hiroshi) is the 40 year-old son of a Yokoyama family. He has recently married a widow with a ten year-old son from her previous marriage, who are joining him on a rare visit home. Only his elderly parents now live in the house, which once doubled as a flourishing medical clinic. The annex, a medical examining room still boasting a wall of pharmaceuticals, remains unchanged, though the patriarchal doctor has retired. Despite the unchanged outward appearances, everything has slightly aged.

The family has gathered to remember Junpei, the eldest son, who died in a terrible accident fifteen years ago. Ryota has never lived up to his brilliant brother who was supposed to take over the family clinic and remains uncomfortable with his father. Tensions and tempers flare within the family during his visit.

Director: Koreeda Hirokazu

Stars: Abe Hiroshi, Natsukawa Yui

JDramaMama's Rating: A

This is a wonderful portrayal of a dysfunctional Japanese family. Nice performances all around and nice ending. A story of reconcilliation and forgiveness.

#Japan #family #drama