Festival Darling: 'In My Father's Room' Sells Wide

"In My Father's Room," the directorial debut of best-selling novelist Maha Harada, is set for its world premiere in competition at the San Sebastian Film Festival. Ahead of this screening, the film secured distribution deals in France, Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Several other territories remain under negotiation, indicating strong international interest.

Following its San Sebastian debut, the film will be presented at the Busan International Film Festival. Art House Films will distribute in France, Jinjin Pictures in Korea, Sky Digi Entertainment in Taiwan, and Edko Films in Hong Kong. The film is an adaptation of Harada's own short story, titled "An Unnecessary Man" in Japan, where it is known as "Muyou no Hito."

The narrative centers on Satomi, an art museum employee who receives an envelope containing a key. This key unlocks a room belonging to her father, who passed away a month prior. As Satomi investigates his final days, she uncovers the life of a man society had overlooked, who found solace in language, tea ceremony, and subtle beauty. The film explores the grace and meaning found in his quiet existence.

The film's local release in Japan is scheduled for January 2027, handled by Bitters End. The cast includes notable actors Aoi Yu, Ogata Issey, Nagayama Eita, and Watanabe Eri. Yoshio Kitagawa, known for his cinematography on "Evil Doesn't Exist," serves as the cinematographer for "In My Father's Room."