Meet the cast of Happyend

In the not-so-distant future, a sprawling metropolis in Japan finds itself on the brink of catastrophic disaster. As the city vibrates with a series of ominous foreshocks, the ominous prediction of a devastating earthquake looms large over its residents. The once-bustling streets now echo with an undercurrent of anxiety, as citizens brace for the uncertain fate that awaits them. As tremors destabilize the foundations of not just the physical landscape but also the social fabric of the community, the city becomes a pressure cooker of tension, fear, and anticipation of what’s to come.

Amidst this backdrop of impending doom, a group of teenage best friends navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence while grappling with the emotional weight of their environment. These young musicians, passionate about their art and dreams, find solace in each other’s company as they engage in the typical antics of youth—from spontaneous jam sessions to mischief that pushes the boundaries of friendship. Yet, the constant threat of disaster serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of their time together, pushing them to confront their fears about the future and the relationships that both uplift and challenge them.

As the tremors grow more intense, the friends face choices that could either strengthen their bonds or sever them forever. Through laughter, heartbreak, and conflict, 'Happyend' probes into the dimensions of friendship, highlighting how true connections can be tested under pressure. With the clock ticking down to the inevitable catastrophe, the film delves deep into both the joys of youth and the somber reality of their circumstances, ultimately leading to a powerful exploration of resilience in the face of destruction.

Critics' Reviews

Halfway through the first fiction film from writer-director Neo Sora, son of the late beloved composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, a scene seemingly ripped from our headlines occurs. Kou (Yukito Hidaka), a Japanese-born teenager of Korean descent, is stopped by the police. In this near future, law enforcement can simply point a cell phone at a detainee and, via face recognition technology, their information becomes instantly available. Policemen now know Kou is not a Japanese citizen, because despite his family having lived in Japan for four generations, the government still treats them as nefarious foreigners who can’t easily become naturalized. The officers demand that he show his residency card. Kou argues he is not obliged to carry it around. Unable to produce the document, he’s taken away to get it.

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