Living in Two Worlds (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Living in Two Worlds” (2024), directed by Mipo Oh and written by Takehiko Minato, is a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the challenges faced by CODAs (Children of Deaf Adults). The film follows Dai Igarashi (played by Ryô Yoshizawa) as he navigates life between the hearing and deaf worlds. Through a series of intimate moments, we witness his struggles, self-discovery, and eventual reconciliation with his identity and family.
In this in-depth review, we’ll analyze the film’s narrative, performances, cinematography, and overall impact. Additionally, we’ll discuss where you can watch “Living in Two Worlds” online, including available streaming and rental options.
Plot Summary
Dai grows up in a small town, raised by loving but deaf parents (played by real-life deaf actress Akiko Oshidari and another seasoned performer). As a child, interpreting for his parents feels natural, but as he gets older, he begins to resent his role. The burden of acting as a bridge between the hearing and deaf communities creates a deep internal conflict.
When Dai moves to Tokyo to pursue independence, he distances himself from his past. However, as life presents new challenges, he starts to understand the sacrifices his parents made and the true depth of their love. Through a mix of present-day storytelling and emotional flashbacks, the film paints a moving portrait of family bonds and the universal journey of growing up.
Deep Dive into Themes & Storytelling
1. The Struggles of a CODA
“Living in Two Worlds” brings attention to a rarely explored perspective—that of a child born into a deaf household. While society often views deafness as a disability, the film challenges this notion by presenting a world where silence is rich with meaning. Dai’s journey illustrates the emotional burden that CODAs often carry: the pressure to interpret, the sense of responsibility, and the struggle for personal identity.
2. A Story of Growth and Reconciliation
One of the film’s most powerful aspects is its depiction of emotional distance and eventual reconciliation. Dai’s teenage resentment—his embarrassment at his parents’ deafness and his desire to escape—is portrayed with authenticity. The storytelling subtly builds up these conflicts, leading to a heartfelt resolution that mirrors the universal experience of understanding our parents better as we grow older.
3. Authentic Representation of Deaf Culture
A major highlight is the film’s commitment to authenticity. Both Akiko Oshidari and the actor playing Dai’s father are deaf, ensuring that their portrayal feels deeply real. The use of Japanese Sign Language (JSL) is integrated naturally, emphasizing the beauty of non-verbal communication.
Performances & Direction
Ryô Yoshizawa as Dai
Yoshizawa delivers a nuanced performance, capturing the inner turmoil of a young man torn between two worlds. His expressions convey everything from frustration to love, making Dai’s transformation incredibly compelling.
Akiko Oshidari as the Mother
Oshidari’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing. At 54 years old, she convincingly portrays a mother over a span of nearly 20 years, effortlessly shifting from a young, hopeful parent to an aging woman filled with quiet wisdom. Her ability to communicate deep emotions through sign language and facial expressions is one of the film’s strongest elements.
Mipo Oh’s Direction
Mipo Oh masterfully balances realism with poetic storytelling. Her decision to use natural lighting, intimate close-ups, and symbolic visuals (such as a recurring motif of boats and water) adds layers of meaning to the narrative. The film’s transitions between past and present are executed seamlessly, using subtle visual cues rather than heavy-handed exposition.
Cinematography & Sound Design
Visually, “Living in Two Worlds” embraces a vibrant yet naturalistic style. The use of bright, saturated colors in childhood scenes contrasts with the muted tones of Dai’s adulthood, subtly reflecting his shifting emotions.
The sound design is particularly noteworthy. At times, the film immerses us in complete silence, allowing us to experience the world from the perspective of Dai’s parents. This contrast between sound and silence is used effectively to heighten emotional impact, especially in the final train station scene.
The Emotional Climax & Ending
The film’s climax takes place at a train station, a moment that echoes the famous literary piece My Father’s Back by Zhu Ziqing. As Dai prepares to leave once again, he finally acknowledges his mother’s presence in public—signing to her without hesitation. This seemingly small act holds immense emotional weight, symbolizing his acceptance of his heritage and his love for his parents.
The final flashback—revealing his mother’s quiet wish to hear his voice, even for just a moment—adds a bittersweet touch, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of love and regret.
Where to Watch “Living in Two Worlds” Online
As of March 2025, “Living in Two Worlds” is not yet available for streaming. However, based on distribution trends, the film is expected to be available on platforms such as:
Subscription-Based Streaming Services (Expected Soon)
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Netflix (Possible addition based on previous Japanese drama acquisitions)
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Hulu (Has a strong library of independent and international films)
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HBO Max (Known for distributing high-quality Asian cinema)
Rental & Purchase Options (Likely Soon)
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Amazon Prime Video – Expected to offer both rental and purchase options.
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Apple TV/iTunes – Likely to provide early digital access.
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Google Play Movies & YouTube – Common platforms for Japanese film rentals.
For the latest availability updates, check JustWatch.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Family Drama
“Living in Two Worlds” is an emotionally resonant film that sheds light on the unique experiences of CODAs while delivering a universal message about love, identity, and acceptance. Though the story follows familiar themes of family reconciliation, its heartfelt performances and authentic representation of deaf culture make it stand out.
Pros:
✅ Authentic performances, especially by Akiko Oshidari
✅ Thoughtful direction and cinematography
✅ A deeply emotional and relatable story
Cons:
❌ Some may find the pacing slow and the narrative fragmented
❌ The father’s character could have been explored further
If you appreciate introspective dramas like CODA (2021) or Shoplifters (2018), “Living in Two Worlds” is definitely worth watching. Keep an eye out for its streaming release and prepare to be moved!
