Kikujiro 1999
Kikujiro (1999), helmed by the versatile Takeshi Kitano, follows the chance meeting of a restless boy and a brash, self-proclaimed mentor as they embark on a cross-country quest to find the mother who abandoned him.
Director: Takeshi Kitano
Cast
Takeshi Kitano
Kikujiro
Yusuke Sekiguchi
Masao
Kayoko Kishimoto
Kikujiro's Wife
Yuko Daike
Masao's Mother
Kazuko Yoshiyuki
Masao's Grandmother
Beat Kiyoshi
Man at Bus Stop
The Great Gidayû
Biker Fatso
Rakkyo Ide
Biker Baldy
Nezumi Imamura
An-chan
Fumie Hosokawa
Juggler Girl
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kikujiro (1999) about?
The film centers on a young boy named Masao who teams up with Kikujiro, a loud and unpredictable man, to travel across Japan in search of his estranged mother. Their chaotic journey becomes a series of whimsical adventures filled with eccentric characters and emotional moments that challenge their bond and purpose.
Who directed Kikujiro?
Kikujiro was directed by the multi-talented Takeshi Kitano, known for blending dark humor with deep emotional resonance in his films.
Who stars in Kikujiro?
The film features Takeshi Kitano in the title role, alongside Yusuke Sekiguchi as Masao, Kayoko Kishimoto, Yuko Daike, and Kazuko Yoshiyuki in key supporting parts.
Is Kikujiro (1999) worth watching?
Kikujiro is a rewarding watch for fans of offbeat dramedies and character-driven stories. Kitano's unique blend of absurd humor and tender storytelling makes it a memorable experience, especially for viewers who enjoy films that balance laughter with heartfelt moments.
How long is Kikujiro?
Kikujiro runs for 121 minutes, offering a full-length adventure packed with plot and character development.
🎥 Trailer
About Kikujiro (1999) — Takeshi Kitano's heartfelt and hilarious road-trip adventure
Kikujiro (1999), helmed by the versatile Takeshi Kitano, follows the chance meeting of a restless boy and a brash, self-proclaimed mentor as they embark on a cross-country quest to find the mother who abandoned him. What begins as a simple road trip unfolds into an unpredictable odyssey brimming with oddball characters, serendipitous encounters, and moments that swing between uproarious comedy and quiet tenderness. Director Kitano blends sharp wit with heartfelt sentiment, crafting a bittersweet fable about connection and belonging that lingers long after the credits roll.
Through vivid visuals and Kitano's signature deadpan charm, Kikujiro (1999) paints a world where adventure feels as real as daydream, and every detour reveals a new layer of humanity—or absurdity. The film's whimsical tone and emotional depth make it a standout in Kitano's filmography, appealing to fans of offbeat dramas and those who appreciate stories that balance laughter with poignant reflection.
