Hirokazu Kore-eda, award-winning director of the Palme d’Or for his work Shoplifter, is currently in the post-production stage of the live-action adaptation of Look Back, an acclaimed manga created by Tatsuki Fujimoto. The film, which marks the first cinematic adaptation of this work, is scheduled for release in late 2026.
A director with a Palme d’Or directing a manga
Published in 2021 on the Shonen Jump+ platform, Look Back has resonated with audiences for its emotional storytelling and authentic representation of personal growth. The story follows two girls who dream of becoming manga artists, exploring themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of creativity. This narrative has captured the interest of both manga fans and critics, generating significant buzz since its release.
Kore-eda’s work is known for its ability to tackle complex themes of human relationships and deep feelings, and his foray into the world of manga promises to offer a new perspective on film adaptation. The acclaimed director has gained wide international recognition, and his involvement has raised expectations around the film, especially given the quality of his previous works.
While few details have been revealed about the cast or the specific plot of the live-action Look Back, manga fans are eager to see how Kore-eda will translate Fujimoto’s emotionally charged story to the big screen. With the strong backing of the manga’s success and the director’s experience, the film is likely to be one of the most anticipated productions in the coming years. However, there is still a long way to go before its final release, and additional details will emerge over time as the release date approaches.
