In a vibrant celebration of local talent and storytelling, the film "Kura no Aru Machi" (The Town with Storehouses), directed and written by Emiko Hiramatsu, has made its debut with a screening held in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The film, which showcases the picturesque town of Kurashiki, was entirely shot in the area and features a compelling narrative that intertwines the themes of family, friendship, and community.
During the screening in March 2025, lead actors Soma Yamato, 19, and Tamaki Nakashima, 18, took to the stage to greet the audience. Yamato and Nakashima, who portray high school students in the film, expressed their excitement about the project. "The earnestness of high school students moves the hearts of adults and expands into great hope. We want to deliver the charm of Kurashiki and the courage to take the first step to the whole nation," Yamato remarked during the event.
The film's storyline is inspired by the "Surprise Hanabi" (fireworks) that uplifted spirits across Japan during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nakashima plays the role of a young caregiver named Kurenai, who is on the verge of giving up her dreams of studying art while caring for her autistic brother. In a bid to encourage her, her childhood friend Aoi, portrayed by Yamato, embarks on a mission to set off fireworks in Kurashiki.
Hiramatsu's film does not just focus on personal struggles; it also highlights the beauty of Kurashiki's traditional townscapes and natural surroundings. "I want to showcase the bonds between family, friends, and the community against this rich backdrop," Hiramatsu stated, emphasizing the film's roots in local culture.
Both lead actors are no strangers to the spotlight. Yamato began his entertainment career at the tender age of five and recently lent his voice to the main character in Studio Ghibli's acclaimed film "Kimitachi wa Do Ikiru ka" (How Do You Live?). Meanwhile, Nakashima made her mark in the NHK Taiga drama "Bera Bo - Tsuta Ju Eiga no Yume Basho" and is making her film debut as a lead.
Reflecting on their roles, Yamato described his character as someone who may seem a bit frivolous but is willing to give his all for someone he loves. "I think viewers will want to cheer him on," he said. Nakashima, on the other hand, noted that her character appears mature but is deeply affected by her surroundings. "The gradual release of her dark expressions was a rewarding challenge for me," she added.
Despite their chemistry on screen, the two actors faced a unique challenge: mastering the Okayama dialect. "It was tough with the accents and intonations, especially the endings like 'jaro' and 'oen'. They were so unfamiliar to me!" Yamato laughed. Nakashima shared her experience of repeatedly listening to recorded voices for practice, aided by Hiramatsu's direct guidance, which helped her deliver a warm performance in the dialect.
In between filming, the cast took the opportunity to explore Kurashiki City to deepen their connection to the region. Yamato expressed his fondness for the Kurashiki Denim Street, known for its denim products from the Kojima district. "There were wonderful clothes lined up, and I want to visit again," he said with a smile. Nakashima enjoyed a quiet stroll through the Bikan historical area at night, describing the experience as healing. "After expressing intense emotions while acting, I felt a calming warmth surrounding me," she reflected.
The film also features a notable cast, including local talents such as MEGUMI and Tomoharu Maeno, as well as former world figure skating champion Daisuke Takahashi, all hailing from Kurashiki.
Fans of the film will have the chance to see it on the big screen soon, as "Kura no Aru Machi" is set for an advance screening at MOVIX Kurashiki starting July 25, 2025, followed by its nationwide release on August 22, 2025. With its heartfelt story and strong local ties, the film promises to be a celebration of not just Kurashiki but also the resilience and spirit of its people.
