What a Wonderful Family! 2016
Celebrate or cringe? *What a Wonderful Family!* (2016) delivers a heartfelt yet hilarious look at love, legacy, and late-life rebellion when a husband of 50 years shocks his wife by asking what she truly wants for her birthday—her answer: a divorce.
Director: Yoji Yamada
Cast
Isao Hashizume
Shuzo Hirata
Kazuko Yoshiyuki
Tomiko Hirata
Masahiko Nishimura
Konosuke Hirata
Yui Natsukawa
Fumie Hirata
Hayashiya Shōzō IX
Taizo Kanai
Tomoko Nakajima
Shigeko Kanai
Yu Aoi
Noriko Mamiya
Satoshi Tsumabuki
Shota Hirata
中村鷹之資
Kenichi Hirata
Ayumu Maruyama
Nobusuke Hirata
Frequently Asked Questions
What is What a Wonderful Family! (2016) about?
After half a century of marriage, a husband's simple birthday question sparks a bombshell: his wife wants a divorce. What follows is a comedic and emotional rollercoaster as their adult children and extended family scramble to navigate the fallout, forcing everyone to confront love, loyalty, and the unexpected turns life can take.
Who directed What a Wonderful Family!?
The film was directed by Yoji Yamada, a celebrated Japanese filmmaker known for his insightful storytelling and award-winning dramas that often blend humor with deep emotional resonance.
Who stars in What a Wonderful Family!?
The ensemble cast includes Isao Hashizume, Kazuko Yoshiyuki, Masahiko Nishimura, Yui Natsukawa, and Hayashiya Shōzō IX, with Tomoko Nakajima rounding out the family portrait.
Is What a Wonderful Family! (2016) worth watching?
If you enjoy character-driven comedies with heart and substance, this film is a gem. While it's unrated on IMDb, its thoughtful themes, stellar cast, and Yamada's gentle yet sharp direction make it a standout choice for fans of family dynamics and subtle humor.
How long is What a Wonderful Family!?
The film runs for 108 minutes, offering a concise yet immersive viewing experience.
🎥 Trailer
About What a Wonderful Family! (2016) — A 50-year marriage turned upside down in a heartwarming Japanese comedy
Celebrate or cringe? *What a Wonderful Family!* (2016) delivers a heartfelt yet hilarious look at love, legacy, and late-life rebellion when a husband of 50 years shocks his wife by asking what she truly wants for her birthday—her answer: a divorce. Acclaimed director Yoji Yamada crafts a sharply observant comedy-drama that explores the fragility of long-term bonds when one partner dares to rewrite the rules. With a stellar ensemble cast led by Isao Hashizume, Kazuko Yoshiyuki, and Masahiko Nishimura, the film balances gentle humor with poignant reflection, revealing how family ties can both anchor us and chafe against change. Expect tender moments and laugh-out-loud chaos as generations collide over a decision that turns a quiet household upside down.
Set against the backdrop of a cramped yet cozy Japanese home, *What a Wonderful Family!* invites audiences to question: Is love a lifelong contract or a series of choices? Yamada's signature warmth and wit shine as the film navigates cultural norms, silent sacrifices, and the messy beauty of second chances. Whether you're a fan of family sagas or character-driven comedies, this 2016 gem offers a refreshing take on second acts—one where the punchline might just be the start of something new.
