Year: 2008
Runtime: 117 mins
Language: Japanese
Director: Katsuhide Motoki
At twelve, Akari receives a puppy she names Socks while trying to stay strong after her mother falls ill. The two become inseparable, but as she grows older her interests shift, and she eventually relocates to a distant city, leaving Socks with a childhood friend. Later she remembers the ten promises she made with Socks and her late mother.
Get a spoiler-free look at 10 Promises to My Dog (2008) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In a quiet hometown where the rhythm of daily life is punctuated by hospital visits and surgical schedules, twelve‑year‑old Akari finds herself shouldering the weight of a family that is both loving and fragile. Her mother, Fumiko, battles a lingering illness while her father, a dedicated surgeon, is often absorbed in his work. In the calm of their garden a golden‑retriever puppy arrives, instantly christened “Socks,” and becomes a small, warm beacon against the backdrop of uncertainty.
The instant connection between Akari and Socks blossoms into a tender partnership, each day stitched together by simple rituals and shared silences. Their bond is further enriched by the presence of Susumu, a guitarist friend whose own aspirations mirror the youthful yearning that surrounds the trio. Together they navigate childhood curiosities, the quiet lull of evenings, and an unspoken pledge—a set of ten promises that bind them to love, responsibility, and hope.
As the years drift forward, Akari’s world begins to widen. School, hobbies, and the pull of a distant city start to tug at her attention, creating a subtle tension between her growing ambitions and the steadfast presence of Socks. When circumstances demand a move, the decision to leave the loyal companion in the care of Susumu tests the depth of those early promises and the resilience of the ties that have shaped her life.
The story unfolds with a gentle, reflective tone, inviting viewers to linger on the intimate moments of companionship and the quiet strength that springs from simple, heartfelt vows. It is a meditation on how memories anchored in devotion can guide us through the inevitable changes that life brings, leaving a lasting impression of love’s quiet perseverance.
Last Updated: October 11, 2025 at 19:42
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