Rome Kanda, Kuroki Hitomi, Ahn Mika, Banno Mari star in Joshua Woodcock’s Japanese drama ‘Ohenro
Rome Kanda and Kuroki Hitomi headline 'Ohenro,' a compelling Japanese drama written and directed by Joshua Woodcock
Rome Kanda (“Maniac,” “The Informant!”) and Kuroki Hitomi (“Tokyo Tower,” “Dark Water”) feature in “Ohenro,” a Japanese-language drama penned and helmed by Joshua Woodcock (“One Night in Tokyo”).
Overseen by Sean Patrick Burke of 222 Pictures and Andrew Cantella from Kitsune Pictures—with Tokyo Colours handling production services in Japan—the movie also features Banno Mari (“Red Whale, White Snake,” “The Great Haruko”) and Ahn Mika (“Otonanajimi,” “Pray Speak What Has Happened”). Currently in the post-production phase, the project aims for a festival debut and plans to reach international distributors by the end of 2026.
Located in the scenic setting of Japan's time-honoured Shikoku pilgrimage, the narrative follows Shinji (Kanda), a heartbroken alcoholic who only finds solace communicating with the spirit of his departed wife Haruka (Kuroki). As his daughter Kyoko (Banno) navigates the challenges of maintaining their broken home, Shinji becomes more consumed by illusions, clinging to reality at a tavern owned by Mari (Ahn).
When his destructive actions cause Haruka’s spirit to vanish, father and daughter undertake a journey for answers, delving into grief, remembrance, and the chance for spiritual harmony.
“This script holds significant emotional depth,” commented Burke. “We felt privileged to work alongside such an exceptional cast and creative team in Japan.”
“The Ohenro pilgrimage provided the ideal setting for the narrative I aspired to present,” shared Woodcock. “Though residing in Japan for many years, I remained in awe when exploring the film locations during preparation. I’m eager to unveil this tale and acquaint global audiences with Japanese sights rarely portrayed on film.”
“I’m privileged to embody Shinji’s journey,” stated Kanda.
“There’s a rising movement of international collaborations in Japan, however, this project stands out due to its uncommon equilibrium of cultural precision and authentic realism,” mentioned executive producer Yuske Fukada.
Other executive producers include Richard D’Amore, Daniel Neff, Braden Neff, Stevin John, Motoko Tabuse, Masao and Mayumi Oka, and Topher Horn. Kanda is managed by Jackson Entertainment Management and Pandium Fusion Talent Agency. Filming concluded in Japan in April.