
The Workhorse and The Bigmouth 2013
In Keisuke Yoshida's poignant 2013 drama *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth*, two aspiring screenwriters navigate the messy intersection of ambition and self-doubt in Tokyo's creative circles.
Director: Keisuke Yoshida
Cast








Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth* (2013) about?
It's a heartfelt drama about Michiyo, a determined but insecure screenwriter, and Yoshimi, a charismatic slacker, whose clashing energies spark an unexpected romance. As they navigate Tokyo's creative scene, their relationship forces them to confront their own limitations and desires.
Who directed *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth*?
Keisuke Yoshida directed the film, bringing a nuanced touch to this character-driven romantic drama.
Who stars in *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth*?
The film features Kumiko Aso as Michiyo Mabuchi, Shôta Yasuda as Yoshimi Tendo, and supporting roles from Yoko Akino, Jun Inoue, and Yoneko Matsukane.
Is *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth* (2013) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, this drama shines as a character study with strong performances and a relatable theme: the tension between perseverance and self-acceptance. If you enjoy thoughtful, low-key romances with depth, it's a hidden gem worth your time.
How long is *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth*?
The runtime is 119 minutes, or just under two hours.
The Workhorse and The Bigmouth (2013): A Love Story About Creativity and Courage
In Keisuke Yoshida's poignant 2013 drama *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth*, two aspiring screenwriters navigate the messy intersection of ambition and self-doubt in Tokyo's creative circles. Michiyo Mabuchi—nicknamed "Basyauma"—is a 34-year-old relentless workhorse, pouring her heart into screenwriting classes while wrestling with the fear that her dreams might never materialize. Enter Yoshimi Tendo, a 26-year-old self-proclaimed "bigmouth" whose charm and laziness mask a deeper reluctance to commit to anything—let alone love. When their paths collide in a shared classroom, an unlikely romance unfolds, blending humor, vulnerability, and the quiet ache of chasing purpose. With a runtime of 119 minutes, this character-driven film explores themes of artistic struggle, unexpected connections, and the fragile balance between effort and surrender.
Yoshida crafts a tender atmosphere, balancing wry humor with moments of raw emotional honesty. Aso and Yasuda deliver standout performances as Michiyo and Yoshimi, whose contrasting personalities illuminate each other's struggles and desires. Shot through with the hum of Tokyo's creative undercurrents, *The Workhorse and The Bigmouth* is a refreshing take on love and ambition for anyone who's ever felt torn between what they want and what they're willing to fight for.