The acclaimed manga Look Back by Tatsuki Fujimoto is transitioning from its 2024 anime success into a live-action feature film directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda, scheduled to open in Japanese cinemas on September 11, 2026, according to official reports.
Venice and Cannes Festivals Showcase Kore-eda’s Live-Action Adaptation
Before its commercial release in Japan, the live-action adaptation will screen in international competition, according to festival announcements. The film was presented in an early preview at the Cannes Film Festival on May 15, and it holds a spot in the main competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, where director Hirokazu Kore-eda will compete for the Golden Lion.
Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Manga Origins and the Journey of Fujino and Kyomoto
Published originally in 2021 as a 144-page one-shot and distributed in Italy by Star Comics, Look Back centers on Fujino, a confident elementary school student who draws a popular strip for the school newspaper. Her view of her own talent shifts when she discovers the work of Kyomoto, a reclusive classmate who possesses striking artistic ability, according to the primary source details. What begins as a bitter rivalry pushes Fujino to study perspective and practice obsessively. When the two finally meet, the imagined rival becomes a close friend and creative partner. The narrative addresses the heavy personal costs, isolation, and deep questions tied to artistic creation.
Cast and Crew Bringing the Characters to Life
The film adaptation features Natsuki Deguchi as the older Fujino and Furi Nanase as her younger counterpart, while Aju Makita portrays Kyomoto alongside Rokka Okada as the child version of the character, according to production disclosures. Behind the camera, Senzo Ueno serves as director of photography, Shinsuke Kojima handles art direction, Sachiko Ito designs the costumes, and Yūta Bandō composes the musical score.
Comparing the Manga, Anime, and Live-Action Adaptations
Look Back has seen rapid multi-format expansion since its initial publication. While the anime stayed very close to Fujimoto’s graphic style, the upcoming live-action version relies on physical actors, real locations, and Kore-eda’s signature focus on memory, childhood, and interpersonal grief.
Pro Tip for Fans
If you want to understand the visual motifs in the upcoming film, compare the framing of the snow scenes in Tatsuki Fujimoto’s original 144-page volume (published by Star Comics in Italy) with the teaser trailers released by the production team.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the live-action Look Back release in theaters?
The live-action film directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda opens in Japanese cinemas on September 11, 2026, following festival screenings at Cannes and the Venice Film Festival.
Who are the main actors in the live-action movie?
Natsuki Deguchi stars as Fujino, with Furi Nanase playing her younger version. Aju Makita plays Kyomoto, and Rokka Okada portrays the character during her childhood.
Is there an earlier adaptation of Look Back?
Yes. The manga was adapted into an acclaimed anime film in 2024 by director Kiyotaka Oshiyama, which was distributed internationally by GKIDS and Prime Video.
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