Breakthrough for Change (2015)
A Japanese drama-comedy about four old friends approaching forty who rediscover drive by taking on a grueling cycling challenge together.
Breakthrough for Change - Movie Information
- Original Title: あらうんど四万十〜カールニカーラン〜
- Release Year: 2015
- Directed by: Daisuke Matsuda
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- Runtime: 1h 52m
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 7, 2015 (Japan), August 30, 2016 (Mexico)
- Alternative Titles: Around Shimanto (US), あらうんど四万十 (JP)
- Production Companies: Studio Wave
- Production Countries: Japan
Breakthrough for Change - Plot
Akira, Takeshi, Yasu, and Shun are a gang of four close friends, all of whom were core members of their high-school ekiden team. Although they were stars back in those days, having slacked up their efforts subsequently, their daily life is lackluster now that the age of forty is just around the corner. They talk at a favorite local tavern just like they used to after Akira comes home giving up his dream to become an actor. Thinking back, they have never accomplished anything but ekiden, and they have unknowingly acquired a tendency to run away from problems in life in general. The phrase they cannot help muttering to themselves is how brilliant they were in those days… Feeling dispirited, they think of participating in the Shimanto Dragon Ride. A challenge for the four men in their late thirties begins…
Breakthrough for Change - Trailer
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Breakthrough for Change - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Daisuke Matsuda
Main Cast
- Yûsei Nishimura
- Makoto Araki
- Hiroshi Nose
- Daichan
- Yasue Satô
- Yû Hiroi
- Hisako Shirata
- Shinzen Okada
Writers
- Daisuke Matsuda
Producers
- Futoshi Yonezu
Breakthrough for Change - FAQs
What is Breakthrough for Change about?
Breakthrough for Change follows four former high-school ekiden runners now approaching forty whose lives feel stagnant. Reuniting at a local tavern, they decide to enter the Shimanto Dragon Ride cycling race, using the challenge as a catalyst to confront regrets, rekindle old bonds, and rediscover a sense of purpose.
Where can I watch Breakthrough for Change?
Streaming availability for Breakthrough for Change varies by region. You can check the most current and comprehensive list of platforms, rental options, and purchase links for your country on JustWatch, which aggregates all available viewing options in one place.
Who directed Breakthrough for Change?
Breakthrough for Change was written and directed by Daisuke Matsuda. The film was produced by Futoshi Yonezu and shot by cinematographer Tetsuro Imai, with editing by Tomoaki Kotomi. It was released in Japan on February 7, 2015, and later in Mexico on August 30, 2016.
Who are the main actors in Breakthrough for Change?
The principal cast includes Yûsei Nishimura as Akira, alongside Makoto Araki, Hiroshi Nose, and Daichan as the four central friends. Supporting roles are filled by Yasue Satô, Yû Hiroi, Hisako Shirata, and Shinzen Okada.
Is Breakthrough for Change based on a true story?
Breakthrough for Change is an original fictional story written by director Daisuke Matsuda. While the film draws on relatable themes of midlife reflection and the real Shimanto region of Kochi Prefecture in Japan, it is not based on any specific real-life events or individuals.
What genre is Breakthrough for Change?
Breakthrough for Change is a Japanese drama-comedy. It blends heartfelt, introspective storytelling about midlife regret and friendship with lighter comedic moments, creating a tone that is both emotionally resonant and warmly humorous throughout its 112-minute runtime.
When was Breakthrough for Change released?
Breakthrough for Change had its initial theatrical release in Japan on February 7, 2015. The film subsequently received a release in Mexico on August 30, 2016, expanding its international reach beyond its home country.
What are some movies similar to Breakthrough for Change?
If you enjoyed Breakthrough for Change, you might also appreciate Cinderella Man (2005), Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), Watch the Sunset (2017), Le Beau Serge (1959), and I Am a Hero (2016), all of which share themes of personal reinvention, friendship, or Japanese storytelling sensibilities.
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