In a compelling new film, the lives of two young funeral planners intertwine as they navigate the profound themes of life and death. Titled Hodonaku, O Wakare desu, this movie adaptation of Natsukizora Nagatsuki's acclaimed debut novel is set to hit theaters in February 2026. The film stars popular actress Miwa Hamabe and Ren Meguro, a member of the idol group Snow Man, marking their first collaboration on screen.
The story centers around Misora Shimizu, played by Hamabe, who finds herself at a crossroads after failing her job search. In a twist of fate, she becomes an intern at Sakato Hall, a funeral company, where she meets Reiji Urushibara, portrayed by Meguro. Urushibara is a seasoned funeral planner who takes on the role of mentor, guiding Misora through the intricacies of preparing for funerals.
Hamabe, known for her roles in Godzilla-1.0 and the serial TV novel Ranman, expressed her initial apprehension about portraying a character that confronts the concept of death. "I had never really faced the concept of death in my acting before, and when I first received the offer, I was a bit anxious about whether I could perform it well," she said. However, she received encouraging guidance from director Takahiro Miki, who advised her to focus on her emotions while portraying the character.
Reflecting on the film, Hamabe noted, "The theme of 'farewell' is something that cannot be avoided; it is very close to us and one of the saddest things. At the same time, I believe it is also something positive and warm. I hope this film encourages people to cherish those around them."
Meguro, who has gained significant recognition for his roles in silent and My Happy Marriage, also shared his thoughts on the film's themes. He stated, "While the theme of farewell is sad, there is also a hopeful aspect to it. The idea that 'even though we said goodbye, we might meet again someday' is a beautiful thought. This film allows audiences to feel the reality of parting with loved ones, which often feels surreal."
Director Takahiro Miki, known for his expertise in youth films, has taken the helm of this project, promising a heartfelt narrative that resonates with many. He remarked, "The death depicted in this film is a farewell that can happen to anyone we love. Whether it is decades from now or tomorrow, when that moment arrives, will we be able to send our loved ones off without regrets?"
In addition to the emotional depth of the story, the film is backed by a talented production team, including script supervisor Kei Okada, known for his work on various dramas and adaptations, and Takatomo Honda, who penned the screenplay. Their combined efforts aim to bring Nagatsuki's poignant narrative to life.
Natsukizora Nagatsuki, who wrote the original series, shared her personal connection to the story, having lost her husband after a lengthy battle with illness. Her experiences inspired her to write the novel, hoping to help others who are grieving. "This film adaptation of my debut work is a dream come true. I am thrilled that Miwa and Ren will portray Misora and Reiji, and I hope audiences will find the film as meaningful as I intended it to be," she expressed.
As the film approaches its release date, anticipation continues to build. The production team encourages viewers to reflect on their relationships and the inevitable farewells we all face. Producer Kei Haruna emphasized the film's message: "While the fact of death remains unchanged, our perception of it can change. This film is about how we organize our feelings and find closure through funerals, allowing us to move forward into the future."
With its blend of heartfelt storytelling and relatable themes, Hodonaku, O Wakare desu promises to be a touching experience for audiences, inviting them to consider the meaning of farewells and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. As the film's release date nears, it's clear that this is a cinematic journey not to be missed.
