Like Father, Like Son

Like Father, Like Son

Year: 2014

Runtime: 121 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Hirokazu Koreeda

Drama

In modern Japan, architect Ryota’s meticulously planned life is thrown into turmoil when he learns his infant son was swapped at birth with another family’s child. Forced to confront this unexpected truth, Ryota must navigate a complex moral and emotional crisis, grappling with questions of identity, responsibility, and the very definition of family. As he interacts with the other family and his biological son, Ryota's rigid worldview begins to soften, leading to a profound understanding of human connection and the enduring power of love.

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Timeline & Setting – Like Father, Like Son (2014)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Like Father, Like Son (2014). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

Set in contemporary Japan, the film reflects modern family dynamics and societal expectations surrounding parenthood. It addresses themes of identity and familial ties in a time where traditional values clash with evolving lifestyles. The emotional journeys of the characters represent a significant turning point in how families navigate complex relationships.

Location

Hospital, Ryōta's Home, Saiki Family's Home

The story unfolds primarily in a hospital where the life-altering revelation occurs, and in the homes of both families, which act as emotional sanctuaries. The contrasting lifestyles of the two families are highlighted, showcasing modern aspirations intertwined with traditional values. These locations serve as backdrops for the deep emotional exchanges and transformative moments the characters experience.

🏥 Hospital 🏡 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:23

Main Characters – Like Father, Like Son (2014)

Meet the key characters of Like Father, Like Son (2014), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ryōta Nonomiya

Ryōta is a successful architect and a dedicated father torn between his career ambitions and familial responsibilities. He initially comes off as emotionally distant, but as the story unfolds, his character reveals layers of love and vulnerability. Ryōta’s journey reflects his struggle with identity and the reevaluation of what it means to be a father.

👨‍👦 Fatherhood 💼 Career ❤️ Emotional Growth

Midori Nonomiya

Midori is Ryōta’s supportive wife, who experiences the emotional turmoil of the revelation deeply. Her nurturing nature is evident as she navigates her conflicting feelings for her son Keita and her biological child Ryūsei. Midori's character represents the heart and emotional core of the family unit, embodying a sense of stability amidst chaos.

👩‍👦‍👦 Motherhood 💔 Heartbreak 🌱 Nurturing

Keita

Keita is the child who was raised by Ryōta and Midori, embodying innocence and the deep emotional implications of the switch. His character represents the love that has shaped his upbringing, revealing the complex layers of attachment between parent and child. As the story progresses, his interactions with both families leave a lasting impact on all involved.

👶 Childhood ❤️ Bonding 😢 Innocence

Ryūsei

Ryūsei, the biological son of Ryōta and Midori, grapples with feelings of identity throughout the film. Initially introduced as the 'other' child, his journey towards acceptance within his new family is fraught with emotional challenges. His character arc reflects the complexities of love, belonging, and the need for connection.

👦 Identity 💔 Struggle 🏃‍♂️ Escapism

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:23

Major Themes – Like Father, Like Son (2014)

Explore the central themes of Like Father, Like Son (2014), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Family Bonds

The film deeply explores the concept of family, particularly the bonds formed through love versus biological ties. It portrays the emotional struggle of two families forced to redefine their relationships after a shocking revelation. Through the exchanges between the boys and their parents, the film beautifully illustrates the complexities of love and loss in familial contexts.

🤝 Identity

Identity plays a crucial role as the characters grapple with their true connections and the impact of their choices. The confusion resulting from the switch at birth challenges each character’s sense of self and belonging. This theme is explored poignantly through the characters' emotional journeys toward understanding who they truly are amidst significant change.

📷 Vulnerability

Vulnerability is a major theme depicted through moments of emotional exposure among the characters. Ryōta's discovery of Keita's photographs reveals hidden depths of connection and intimacy that challenge his understanding of fatherhood. The film poignantly highlights how vulnerability can lead to healing and deeper understanding in relationships.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:23

Unlock the Full Story of Like Father, Like Son

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Like Father, Like Son Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Like Father, Like Son, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Like Father, Like Son Summary

Like Father, Like Son Timeline

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Like Father, Like Son Timeline

More About Like Father, Like Son

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Like Father, Like Son (2014) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

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