What Did You Eat Yesterday?

Synopsis

What Did You Eat Yesterday? (劇場版「きのう何食べた？」) is a 2021 Japanese film adaptation of the beloved manga series by Fumi Yoshinaga. Starring Hidetoshi Nishijima, the story follows Shiro Kakei, a meticulous lawyer, and his partner Kenji Yabuki, a cheerful hairdresser, as they navigate their daily lives in Tokyo. The film delicately explores their relationship dynamics, personal struggles, and the joy found in everyday routines—especially centered around the meals they prepare and share. Combining tender character moments with themes of food, love, and acceptance, the movie is a heartfelt portrayal of a same-sex couple’s life in contemporary Japan. It balances humor and heartfelt emotion while offering a unique perspective on the importance of connection and nourishment beyond the plate.

Cast

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  Hidetoshi Nishijima

  Shiro Kakei

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  Seiyo Uchino

  Kenji Yabuki

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  Koji Yamamoto

  Daisaku Kohinata

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  Hayato Isomura

  Wataru Inoue

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  Makita Sports

  Yu Miyake

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  Misako Tanaka

  Kayoko Tominaga

Reviews

What Did You Eat Yesterday? has generally received positive acclaim for its warmth and intimate storytelling. On IMDb, the movie holds a rating of 7.1/10, reflecting favorable audience reception. Critics praise Hidetoshi Nishijima's nuanced performance, describing it as "quietly powerful" and "endearingly relatable." The film’s focus on culinary detail and the depiction of everyday life has been highlighted as a refreshing change from typical romantic dramas. For instance, reviewers from Asian Movie Pulse noted, "The film beautifully crafts a narrative that combines food and love in a subtle yet meaningful way." However, some critics mention that the film’s pacing can feel slow to those expecting high drama or action; it is a slice-of-life narrative that prioritizes character development over plot twists. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a formal score due to limited number of critic reviews internationally, but audience feedback often emphasizes the film's charm and emotional honesty. Metacritic similarly lacks a comprehensive rating but features user comments appreciating the film’s cultural nuance and positive LGBTQ+ representation. Overall, What Did You Eat Yesterday? is celebrated for its gentle storytelling and its celebration of ordinary moments, making it a compelling watch particularly for fans of thoughtful, character-driven cinema.