The highly anticipated live-action film adaptation of Akiko Higashimura’s autobiographical manga, Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey (かくかくしかじか, Kakukaku Shikajika), has made its debut in Japanese cinemas, opening at #4 during its first weekend. Released on May 16, 2025, the film, starring Mei Nagano as Akiko and Yo Oizumi as her art teacher Kenzo Hidaka, has garnered attention for its heartfelt story and the beloved manga it’s based on.
A Solid Start at the Box Office
Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey opened in 357 theaters across Japan on May 16th. Over its opening weekend (May 16-18), the film earned 170 million yen (approximately 1.17 million USD) with 125,000 admissions. While it didn’t take the top spot, its fourth-place debut is a respectable start, indicating a strong interest from audiences. The film also ranked #5 in Filmarks’ first-day satisfaction ranking with an average rating of 3.69/5.0 based on 891 reviews, suggesting that viewers are connecting with the story.
Competition in the Rankings
Dominating the box office for the fifth consecutive weekend is Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback, the latest installment in the popular anime franchise. The film earned 516 million yen (3.56 million USD) on 346,000 admissions, showcasing its continued popularity. Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning came in second, earning 449 million yen (3.1 million USD) on 281,000 admissions during its advanced screenings. Minecraft: The Movie landed the third position.
The Story Behind the Canvas
Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey is based on Akiko Higashimura’s autobiographical josei manga series of the same name. The manga, serialized in Shueisha’s Cocohana magazine from 2011 to 2015, won the grand prize at the Ministry of Cultural Affairs’ 19th Japan Media Arts Festival Awards and the eighth Manga Taisho award in 2015.
From Lazy Student to Manga Artist
The film tells the story of Akiko Hayashi, a high school student in Miyazaki who dreams of becoming a successful manga artist. Akiko, played by Mei Nagano, is portrayed as a somewhat lazy student who coasts on her perceived natural talent.
The Dreadful Mr. Hidaka
Seeking to improve her skills, Akiko enrolls in a private art class run by the strict and unconventional Kenzo Hidaka, played by Yo Oizumi. Hidaka is a demanding teacher who uses harsh methods, including a bamboo sword, to push his students. Initially, Akiko is frustrated by his methods, but she gradually comes to realize the value of hard work and dedication.
A Mentor-Apprentice Relationship
The film vividly depicts the nine-year relationship between Akiko and Hidaka, set against the backdrop of Miyazaki, Ishikawa, and Tokyo. It explores themes of ambition, mentorship, and self-discovery, as Akiko navigates the challenges of pursuing her dream.
Meet the Cast and Crew
- Mei Nagano as Akiko Hayashi, the protagonist based on Akiko Higashimura herself.
- Yo Oizumi as Kenzo Hidaka, Akiko’s strict and influential art teacher.
- Kazuaki Seki is the director of the film.
- Akiko Higashimura and Date-san wrote the screenplay.
- Yuki Munakata composed the music.
A Word from Higashimura
Akiko Higashimura herself was involved in the film’s production, even supervising the art for all the drawings and paintings used in the film.
Critical Reception
While it’s still early, initial reactions to Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey have been mixed. Some critics have praised the film for its heartfelt story and the performances of Mei Nagano and Yo Oizumi. Others have been more critical of the film’s portrayal of the master-apprentice relationship, particularly the use of physical discipline by Hidaka.
A Sentimental Celebration?
One review in The Japan Times noted that the film might give viewers pause about following in the protagonist’s footsteps, and that the “tough-love instruction” is a reminder that the film is set three decades ago. The reviewer also found Kenzo’s violence as a teacher disturbing.
More Than Just a Comedy
Despite the criticisms, many viewers have found the film to be a moving and inspiring story about the power of mentorship and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Higashimura’s ability to blend humor and drama is also praised, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Theme Song
The film’s theme song, “Message,” is performed by MISAMO, a sub-unit of the South Korean group TWICE. The song adds another layer of emotional depth to the film, capturing the spirit of Akiko’s journey.
Similar Themes
Fans of Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey might also enjoy other films and series that explore similar themes:
- Bakuman: A manga about two high school students who team up to become manga artists.
- March Comes in Like a Lion: An anime series about a young shogi player struggling with loneliness and depression.
- Little Forest: A film about a young woman who returns to her rural hometown to reconnect with nature and herself.
- Whisper of the Heart: An animated film about a young bookworm who dreams of becoming a writer.
Where to Watch
Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey is currently playing in theaters across Japan. There is no word yet on international release plans.
A Touching Tale
Blank Canvas: My So-Called Artist’s Journey tells a touching, humorous, and deeply personal story of ambition, mentorship, and self-discovery. While it remains to be seen how the film will perform in the long run, its opening weekend results suggest that it has resonated with audiences in Japan.
