
What Should We Have Done? 2023
Fujino Tomoaki's raw and deeply personal documentary *What Should We Have Done? (2023)* peels back the layers of a 20-year family tragedy, revealing the devastating consequences of untreated mental illness and societal stigma.
Director: Fujino Tomoaki
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *What Should We Have Done? (2023)* about?
Fujino Tomoaki's documentary uncovers a heartbreaking family secret from 1983, when his 24-year-old sister began showing signs of schizophrenia. Instead of seeking treatment, his parents confined her to their home, even locking the front door. Over two decades, the filmmaker secretly recorded the unfolding crisis, exposing the devastating consequences of denial and inaction.
Who directed *What Should We Have Done? (2023)*?
The film was directed by Fujino Tomoaki, who also served as the cinematographer, capturing his family's harrowing ordeal in stark, unfiltered footage.
Who stars in *What Should We Have Done? (2023)*?
While cast details are not widely listed, the documentary prominently features Fujino Tomoaki himself, along with his sister and parents as the central figures in this deeply personal story.
Is *What Should We Have Done? (2023)* worth watching?
Given its powerful themes and Fujino Tomoaki's unflinching direction, *What Should We Have Done?* is a must-watch for fans of raw, thought-provoking documentaries. Its exploration of mental health stigma and family denial resonates deeply, though its stark portrayal may not be for everyone.
How long is *What Should We Have Done? (2023)*?
The documentary runs for 102 minutes, offering a concise yet impactful viewing experience.
🎥 Trailer
About What Should We Have Done? (2023) — A family's 20-year fight against mental illness and silence
Fujino Tomoaki's raw and deeply personal documentary *What Should We Have Done? (2023)* peels back the layers of a 20-year family tragedy, revealing the devastating consequences of untreated mental illness and societal stigma. Set against the backdrop of 1983 Japan, the film follows the director's sister, who began showing signs of schizophrenia at just 24 years old. Her parents' denial and refusal to seek help led to her confinement at home, culminating in drastic measures like padlocking the front door. What unfolds is a harrowing story of love, silence, and the desperate need for intervention, as the filmmaker himself secretly documents the unfolding crisis through his camera.
With its unflinching gaze and emotional depth, *What Should We Have Done?* transcends the boundaries of a traditional documentary, becoming a poignant exploration of family, mental health, and the systemic failures that perpetuate suffering. The film's black-and-white footage adds a stark, almost clinical tone, mirroring the cold reality of a family trapped in denial. It's a story that lingers, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about compassion, responsibility, and the cost of silence.