52 Hertz Whales (2024 Film)
52 Hertz Whales (Japanese: 52ヘルツのクジラたち, Romaji: 52 Hertz no Kujiratachi) is a 2024 Japanese drama film directed by Izuru Narushima. The film is an adaptation of the 2020 novel of the same name written by Sonoko Machida, which was published by Chuokoron Shinsha.
Plot
The story follows Kiko Mishima, portrayed by Hana Sugisaki, a woman who has endured severe emotional and physical abuse from her family. Seeking to escape her traumatic past in Tokyo, she relocates to a quiet seaside town in Oita Prefecture. While attempting to rebuild her life, she encounters a 13-year-old boy who has also suffered abuse. The boy, who has become mute due to his trauma, mirrors Kiko's own experiences, leading to a profound connection between the two as they navigate their shared history of isolation and pain.
Cast
The film features an ensemble cast including:
- Hana Sugisaki as Kiko Mishima
- Jun Shison as Ango Okada
- Hio Miyazawa as Chikara Niina
- Karin Ono as Miharu Makioka
- Tori Kuwana as the boy
- Nanase Nishino as Kotomi Shinagi
- Daichi Kaneko as Mahoro Muranaka
- Sei Matobu as Yuki Mishima
- Kimiko Yo as Noriko Okada
- Mitsuko Baisho as Sachie Muranaka
- Nobue Iketani as Fujie
Production
The film was directed by Izuru Narushima, with a screenplay written by Yukari Tatsui. It was released in Japan on March 1, 2024, with a runtime of 135 minutes. The production was distributed by Gaga Corporation.