A new film from Hirokazu Koreeda is on the way. The Sheep in the Box will open nationwide across Japan on May 29.
The director behind Like Father, Like Son and Monster once again turns his gaze toward the fragile architecture of family. This time, Koreeda not only directs but also writes and edits the film himself, marking his first original Japanese screenplay since Shoplifters eight years ago.
Set in the near future, the story follows a couple who choose to bring a humanoid into their home after the death of their son. What unfolds is a quiet but piercing meditation on grief, memory, and the shapes love can take.
Haruka Ayase plays architect Otone Komoto, starring opposite Daigo as Kensuke, the second-generation president of a construction company. Rimu Kuwaki, selected from more than 200 hopefuls, takes on the film’s most demanding role, portraying both the couple’s deceased child and the humanoid created in his likeness.
A newly unveiled teaser opens with a bird’s-eye view of the Komoto home, its boxlike shape quietly mirroring the title. The humanoid son steps inside and says, “I’m home.” Otone replies warmly, “Welcome back,” while Kensuke follows, a touch more formally, with “Welcome.” The trailer then drifts through moments of each family member absorbed in their own acts of creation before closing on the three gazing upward together — a scene said to be inspired by The Little Prince.
A poster has also been unveiled, capturing the humanoid child in a forest, quietly resting his face against a tree.
The Sheep in the Box
Credits
Director / Screenplay / Editing: Hirokazu Kore-eda
Cast: Haruka Ayase, Daigo, Rimu Kuwaki
Production: Fuji Television Network / Gaga Corporation / Toho / AOI Pro.
Production Company: AOI Pro.
Distribution: Toho / Gaga
© 2026 Fuji Television / Gaga / Toho / AOI Pro.
Official X & Instagram: @Hakohitsujifilm
In theaters nationwide May 29, opening at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya and other locations.
