Haha o Nakushita Toki, Boku wa Ikotsu o Tabetai to Omotta

Haha o Nakushita Toki, Boku wa Ikotsu o Tabetai to Omotta (English title: When My Mom Died, I Wanted to Eat Her Ashes) is a 2019 Japanese drama film directed by Tatsushi Omori. The film is based on the autobiographical manga of the same name by Satoshi Miyagawa, which was published by Shinchosha in 2014.

Promotional poster for the film — Promotional artwork for the film.

Plot

The narrative follows Satoshi (Ken Yasuda), a man reflecting on his relationship with his mother, Akiko (Mitsuko Baisho). After Akiko is diagnosed with cancer, Satoshi takes on the role of her primary caregiver, supported by his girlfriend, Mari (Nao Matsushita). The film explores the emotional toll of the illness and the subsequent grieving process for Satoshi and his family, including his father, Toshiaki (Renji Ishibashi), and older brother, Yuichi (Jun Murakami), as they navigate life after her passing.

Production

The film was directed by Tatsushi Omori, who also contributed to the screenplay. It was produced by Tomohiro Kobayashi and Gaku Kawasaki, with cinematography by Kenji Maki. The film was distributed by Asmik Ace Entertainment and released in Japanese theaters on February 22, 2019.

Cast

Ken Yasuda as Satoshi
Mitsuko Baisho as Akiko
Nao Matsushita as Mari
Jun Murakami as Yuichi
Renji Ishibashi as Toshiaki