
Sticks and Stones 2019
In *Sticks and Stones (2019)*, debut director Takuma Sato crafts a quietly powerful drama set in a Japanese inpatient rehab hospital, where rookie physical therapist Haruka faces her first professional challenge.
Director: Takuma Sato
Cast







Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sticks and Stones (2019) about?
*Sticks and Stones* follows Haruka, a young physical therapist reeling from a breakup, as she begins her career by working with Mr. Tsuge, a stroke patient learning to rebuild his life. Their journey becomes a mirror for her own struggles, as she grapples with the limits of healing and the meaning of moving forward.
Who directed Sticks and Stones?
The film was directed by Takuma Sato, marking his feature debut.
Who stars in Sticks and Stones?
Narumi Uno leads the cast as Haruka, with Motoki Ochiai playing Mr. Tsuge, and Shunya Itabashi, Haruna Hori, and Gaku Hosokawa rounding out the ensemble.
Is Sticks and Stones (2019) worth watching?
While IMDb has not rated it, *Sticks and Stones* offers a thoughtful exploration of recovery and human connection that resonates emotionally. Its short runtime makes it an accessible watch, though its pacing may not satisfy those seeking fast-paced drama.
How long is Sticks and Stones?
The film has a runtime of 37 minutes.
About Sticks and Stones (2019) — A Quiet Drama of Recovery and Resilience
In *Sticks and Stones (2019)*, debut director Takuma Sato crafts a quietly powerful drama set in a Japanese inpatient rehab hospital, where rookie physical therapist Haruka faces her first professional challenge. Just as her personal life crumbles after a brutal breakup, Haruka is assigned to care for Mr. Tsuge, a stroke survivor left paralyzed on his left side. His raw question—"Can I go back to my old life?"—hangs in the air, mirroring Haruka's own struggles as she navigates healing, resilience, and the fragile threads of human connection.
The film unfolds with a deliberate, contemplative pace, immersing viewers in the quiet intensity of second chances. Sato's sensitive direction highlights themes of recovery, both physical and emotional, against the backdrop of a sterile but emotionally charged hospital environment. With standout performances from Narumi Uno as Haruka and Motoki Ochiai as the determined Mr. Tsuge, *Sticks and Stones* weaves a poignant story about the small victories that redefine life's possibilities.