I Wish

Synopsis

I Wish (奇跡) is a heartwarming Japanese drama film released in 2011, directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda. The story follows two young brothers, Koichi and Ryu, who are separated due to their parents' divorce. They believe that if they witness the moment two passing bullet trains cross each other for the first time, a wish they make simultaneously will come true. Koichi living with his mother in Kagoshima and Ryu living with his father in Fukuoka embark on a journey to meet at the designated spot. Along the way, they encounter new friends and experiences that shape their understanding of family, friendship, and the power of wishes.

Cast

• 

  Koki Maeda

  Koichi Osako

• 

  Oshirō Maeda

  Ryoonosuke Kinami

• 

  Nene Otsuka

  Nozomi Osako

• 

  Joe Odagiri

  Kenji Kinami

• Ryôga Hayashi

  Tasuku

• Hoshinosuke Yoshinaga

  Shin Ota

Reviews

I Wish received critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling and authentic performances. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a score of 93%, with the critics' consensus praising its 'tender performances and beautiful cinematography'. IMDb rated the film 7.3/10, highlighting its 'innocence and emotional depth'. Metacritic assigned a score of 80/100, indicating 'universal acclaim'. Variety magazine stated, 'Kore-eda masters the delicate balance here, sensitive to the emotional currents that flow between family members of all stripes.' The Hollywood Reporter remarked, 'The two kids are so enchanting in their roles, and the script is so full of sweet and funny moments that the film exerts a strong emotional pull.'