Sheep in the Box

Sheep in the Box (2026)



箱の中の羊

6.5 2026 126 min Japan

Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda

Cast: Haruka Ayase, Daigo Yamamoto, Kuwaki Rimu, Nana Seino, Kanichiro

Drama Science Fiction
In a world just a few years ahead of our own, architect Otone Komoto and her husband Kensuke, owner of a construction firm, make an unconventional choice: they open their home to a humanoid robot and raise it as their own son.

More About This Film

Sheep in the Box is a Japanese science-fiction drama from acclaimed filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda. Set in the near future, it follows a grieving couple who have lost their young son and are presented with a humanoid being designed to resemble him.

The film uses a speculative premise to explore grief, family, memory, and the difficult question of what makes someone a person. Kore-eda brings his characteristic focus on intimate family relationships to a science-fiction setting, creating a story that is as emotional as it is futuristic.

  • Hirokazu Kore-eda wrote, directed, and edited the film.
  • Haruka Ayase and Daigo Yamamoto star as the grieving couple.
  • Rimu Kuwaki plays the humanoid Kakeru.
  • The film was selected for the main competition at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival.
  • It was released theatrically in Japan by Toho in May 2026.

Where to Watch

Sheep in the Box has been released theatrically in Japan, with international availability depending on territory.