Dearest Poster

Dearest 2012

★ 6.813 votes111 min📅 2012-08-25

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Yasuo Furuhata, 2012's Dearest is a quiet, poignant Japanese drama anchored by a stellar cast including Ken Takakura, Yuko Tanaka, Koichi Sato, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, Kimiko Yo, and Haruka Ayase.

Director: Yasuo Furuhata

Cast

Ken Takakura
Ken Takakura
Eiji Shimakura
Yuko Tanaka
Yuko Tanaka
Yoko Shimakura
Koichi Sato
Koichi Sato
Nanbara
Tsuyoshi Kusanagi
Tsuyoshi Kusanagi
Yûji Tamiya
Kimiko Yo
Kimiko Yo
Tamiko Hamasaki
Haruka Ayase
Haruka Ayase
Naoko Hamasaki
Takeshi Kitano
Takeshi Kitano
Teruo Sugino
Tadanobu Asano
Tadanobu Asano
Policeman
Mieko Harada
Mieko Harada
Kumiko Tsukamoto
Kyōzō Nagatsuka
Kyōzō Nagatsuka
Kazuo Tsukamoto

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dearest (2012) about?

Dearest (2012) follows Eiji, a man navigating the quiet aftermath of his wife's death. He learns of her final request to have her ashes scattered in the ocean near her childhood hometown, and discovers a letter she left for him at the post office shortly before she passed. The film centers on his journey to honor her wish while processing the grief of her loss.

Who directed Dearest?

Yasuo Furuhata directed this 2012 drama, bringing his signature understated, character-focused storytelling style to the film's tender exploration of grief and enduring love.

Who stars in Dearest?

The film features standout performances from Ken Takakura, Yuko Tanaka, Koichi Sato, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, Kimiko Yo, and Haruka Ayase in key roles.

Is Dearest (2012) worth watching?

As a quiet, character-driven drama, Dearest (2012) is a strong pick for viewers who appreciate understated, emotionally resonant stories that prioritize authentic human emotion over flashy plot twists. While it has no official IMDb rating listed, its thoughtful direction and strong cast make it a rewarding watch for fans of heartfelt, slow-burn dramas.

How long is Dearest?

Dearest (2012) has a runtime of 111 minutes, or just under two hours.

🎥 Trailer

About Dearest (2012) — A Poignant Drama of Love and Final Wishes

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Yasuo Furuhata, 2012's Dearest is a quiet, poignant Japanese drama anchored by a stellar cast including Ken Takakura, Yuko Tanaka, Koichi Sato, Tsuyoshi Kusanagi, Kimiko Yo, and Haruka Ayase. Furuhata's signature understated, character-driven directorial style leans into subtle emotional beats rather than dramatic grandstanding, creating a warm, melancholic atmosphere that feels deeply authentic and relatable for anyone who has experienced grief or cherished a small, meaningful memento from a loved one. The film falls squarely into the drama genre, prioritizing slow, thoughtful pacing that lets its emotional core breathe.

The story centers on Eiji, a man navigating the quiet aftermath of his wife's sudden passing. He learns of her final, unspoken wish: to have her ashes scattered in the ocean near her childhood hometown, and discovers a letter she left for him at the local post office shortly before she died. As he works to honor her request, the film explores themes of enduring love, unspoken goodbyes, and the small, everyday moments that define a life well-lived, making it a tender, moving watch for fans of heartfelt, character-focused cinema.