RReframe← All stories
Japanese Cinema

Kaede (2025 Film)

Kaede is a Japanese feature film directed by Isao Yukisada, released on December 19, 2025. The film is inspired by the 1998 song of the same name by the Japanese rock band Spitz.

Promotional poster for the film Kaede
Promotional poster for the film Kaede

Plot

The story follows Ryo Sunaga (Sota Fukushi), whose older twin brother, Kei Sunaga (also played by Sota Fukushi), dies in an accident while in New Zealand. Kei's girlfriend, Ako Kinoshita (Haruka Fukuhara), is deeply affected by the loss. When Ryo encounters Ako, she mistakenly identifies him as Kei. Unable to reveal the truth, Ryo begins to impersonate his brother.

Over the course of a month, Ryo maintains this deception, bonding with Ako over their shared interest in astronomy. As he navigates this double life, Ryo finds himself falling for Ako, who is unaware of his true identity. The narrative explores the complexities of their relationship as Ako harbors her own secrets.

Sota Fukushi
Sota Fukushi, who plays the dual roles of Ryo and Kei Sunaga

Cast

The film features the following primary cast members:

  • Sota Fukushi as Ryo Sunaga and Kei Sunaga
  • Haruka Fukuhara as Ako Kinoshita
  • Hio Miyazawa as Shigeru Kajino
  • Anna Ishii as Hiyori Endo
  • Kaito Miyachika as Yusuke Tsuji
  • Nene Otsuka as Mika Sunaga
  • Masaya Kato as Ryuichi Sunaga
Haruka Fukuhara
Haruka Fukuhara as Ako Kinoshita
Hio Miyazawa
Hio Miyazawa as Shigeru Kajino
Anna Ishii
Anna Ishii as Hiyori Endo
Kaito Miyachika
Kaito Miyachika as Yusuke Tsuji

Production

The film was directed by Isao Yukisada with a screenplay written by Izumi Takahashi. Production was managed by producers Yoko Ide and Kasumi Yao, with cinematography by Kenji Maki. The film was distributed by Toei and Asmik Ace Entertainment.

◆

End of story