Ryota Nakano releases new family drama ‘Making My Brother Small’

Japanese director Ryota Nakano has released a new film titled ‘Making My Brother Small’ (working title translation), based on the non-fiction essay ‘My Brother’s End’ by Riko Murai. The film stars Ko Shibasaki, Joe Odagiri, and Hikari Mitsushima.

The story follows Riko, a woman who had become estranged from her brother due to his financial and personal issues. Following his sudden death, she travels to Miyagi Prefecture in the Tohoku region to handle his affairs and reunite with his former wife and child. The narrative explores themes of family reconciliation, grief, and the complex bonds between relatives through a lens that blends realism with elements of fantasy.

The film has been selected for the Busan and Tokyo International Film Festivals and is scheduled for release in Hong Kong and Macau starting August 27, 2026.