
Struggling Man 2021
In Toshio Lee's lighthearted comedy *Struggling Man (2021)*, Ken Yasuda delivers a standout performance as Haruo Izawa, a 45-year-old grocery floor chief clinging to his 25-year routine at Umeya store.
Director: Toshio Lee
Cast









Frequently Asked Questions
What is Struggling Man (2021) about?
The film follows Haruo Izawa, a long-tenured grocery floor chief who prides himself on being the backbone of his store. As he juggles family life and workplace expectations, he questions whether his loyalty and effort will ever lead to the recognition—or promotion—he secretly craves.
Who directed Struggling Man?
Toshio Lee directed *Struggling Man*, infusing the comedy with a relatable, slice-of-life charm.
Who stars in Struggling Man?
The film features Ken Yasuda as Haruo Izawa, alongside Eiko Koike, Harutomo Koyama, Yui Okada, and SWAY in key roles.
Is Struggling Man (2021) worth watching?
With its blend of gentle humor and heartfelt storytelling, *Struggling Man* offers a refreshing take on the comedy genre. It's a feel-good watch for fans of character-driven films who appreciate subtle, relatable struggles over over-the-top antics.
How long is Struggling Man?
The movie runs for 114 minutes, or roughly 1 hour and 54 minutes.
About Struggling Man (2021) — A Grocery Clerk's Quiet Quest for Meaning
In Toshio Lee's lighthearted comedy *Struggling Man (2021)*, Ken Yasuda delivers a standout performance as Haruo Izawa, a 45-year-old grocery floor chief clinging to his 25-year routine at Umeya store. Though he insists he's no leader, Haruo secretly thrives on his manager's praise—his prized validation in a world where career growth feels like a distant dream. Between balancing the pressures of work, family life as a husband and father of three, and the quiet longing for something more, this everyday hero navigates life's small but meaningful struggles with quiet determination.
Set against the mundane backdrop of a neighborhood grocery, the film captures the warmth and humor of ordinary life, where triumphs are measured in fleeting moments of recognition rather than grand achievements. With a blend of gentle satire and heartfelt realism, *Struggling Man* explores themes of ambition, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going when life feels stuck in neutral.