Director Joji Matsuoka's meticulous attention to the 'Meshiya' diner.

Based on the popular comic by Yaro Abe, Midnight Diner, which has sparked a quiet sensation and been adapted into a TV drama three times, is now a film. Set in 'Meshiya,' a diner that only opens at midnight, it depicts various human stories through food.

The film is directed by Joji Matsuoka, known for "Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes, Dad," who also helmed the drama series. For the film adaptation, a realistic streetscape was recreated within a 300-tsubo warehouse. Unique culinary touches were added to the menu, bringing the world of the story to the screen.

Kaoru Kobayashi reprises his role as the Master, captivating viewers with his subtle distance from customers and his quiet, natural demeanor. In addition to the familiar regulars from the drama series, the cast is joined by a lineup of talented actors, including Saori Takahashi, Mikako Tabe, Kimiko Yo, Michitaka Tsutsui, and Yuko Tanaka.

Customers with peculiar stories find the strength to take a step forward with the Master's cooking.

Located in an alleyway in a neon-lit entertainment district, 'Meshiya' bustles every night with people seeking the Master's cooking and a sense of comfort. It opens only at midnight, and the menu is limited to pork soup set meals, beer, and sake. However, it's a peculiar little diner where they'll make almost anything if you ask.

Tonight, regulars gather, chatting about everyday matters over a cremation urn someone left behind. Meanwhile, Tamako, who hasn't visited in a while, is looking for a new patron after her lover's death. She hits it off with a younger man she happens to meet at 'Meshiya.'

Michiru, who started working and living at the diner after eating without paying, begins to feel at home but seems preoccupied. Kenzo, who came from the disaster-stricken region of Fukushima, causes a stir by demanding to see Akemi, a regular customer.

In "The Midnight Diner," the bittersweet lives of customers intertwine against the backdrop of the diner. Faced with the Master's nostalgic cooking, the customers unburden their hearts, fill their stomachs, and take a step forward into tomorrow.



Midnight Diner
Nationwide release from Saturday, January 31st

Director | Joji Matsuoka

Starring | Kaoru Kobayashi, Saori Takahashi, Tokio Emoto, Mikako Tabe, Kimiko Yo, Michitaka Tsutsui, Akiko Kikuchi, Yuko Tanaka, Joe Odagiri

Distribution | Toei

2015 / Japan / 119 min

http://meshiya-movie.com


© 2015 Yaro Abe, Shogakukan / "Midnight Diner" Film Production Committee