Step (2020 Film)
Step is a 2020 Japanese drama film directed by Ken Iizuka. The film is based on the 2009 novel of the same name by author Kiyoshi Shigematsu, which was originally published by Chuokoron-Shinsha. The story centers on the life of a single father navigating the challenges of raising his daughter alone following the death of his wife.
Plot
The narrative follows Kenichi Takeda, portrayed by Takayuki Yamada, who finds himself a widower and a single parent. The film chronicles a decade of his life as he raises his daughter, Miki, from her time in nursery school through her graduation from elementary school. Throughout these ten years, Kenichi faces various personal and parental obstacles while attempting to provide a stable life for his child.
Production and Release
The film was directed by Ken Iizuka, who also contributed to the screenplay. The production was originally scheduled for release on April 3, 2020; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the theatrical premiere was postponed to July 17, 2020. The film features the theme song "Aru" by Motohiro Hata.
Cast
The film features an ensemble cast depicting the life of the Takeda family and those around them:
- Takayuki Yamada as Kenichi Takeda
- Rine Tanaka as Miki Takeda (ages 9–12)
- Tamaki Shiratori as Miki Takeda (ages 6–8)
- Misaki Nakano as Miki Takeda (age 2)
- Sairi Ito as Teacher Kero
- Rina Kawaei as Mai Naruse
- Ryoko Hirosue as Nanae Saito
- Jun Kunimura as Akira Muramatsu
- Kimiko Yo as Michiyo Muramatsu
- Akihiro Kakuta as Yoshihiko Muramatsu
- Reiko Kataoka as Midori Muramatsu
