Shall We Dance?

Set in contemporary Japan, the story follows a salaryman as he reconsiders his life through ballroom dancing. It contrasts traditional Japanese expectations with the allure and social tension of Western dance, illustrating personal renewal through artistic pursuit.

The story unfolds across Tokyo, where Sugiyama works as an accountant and lives in a suburban home. It follows his nights and the Seibu Ikebukuro Line as he discovers a windowed dance studio and the clandestine world of Western ballroom. The film also enters Blackpool, the destination tied to Mai's dance career, as a symbol of the broader ballroom circuit.

💃 Self-discovery

Sugiyama's pursuit of dance awakens a sense of purpose he couldn't find in his corporate routine. The practice opens him to vulnerability, joy, and risk, transforming how he sees himself and his world. Through rehearsal and performance, dance becomes a vehicle for personal growth.

🧭 Societal norms

The film frames Japanese society's suspicion of Western ballroom dancing and the pressure to hide such hobbies. Colleagues and family react with misunderstanding, revealing gender roles and corporate expectations. The narrative treats conformity as a barrier to authentic happiness and shows dance as a challenge to tradition.

👪 Family & relationships

Masako's suspicion and the detective's investigation strain the marriage, pushing open and honest dialogue. The story places emphasis on communication and forgiveness as keys to reconciliation. The daughter's presence nudges her parents toward connection, blending domestic life with the dance journey.

🧑‍🏫 Mentorship & community

Tamako Tamura and Mai Kishikawa act as mentors from different angles, guiding Sugiyama toward new possibilities. The dance class becomes a supportive community where skills and confidence grow. The amateur competition and Mai's letter reveal how mentorship can rekindle ambition and hope.