Yes, I Can't Swim (2025)

Last Afternoon - song and lyrics by Takuma Watanabe - Spotify

The movie is noted for blending lighthearted comedy with heavy emotional drama, focusing on personal growth, overcoming trauma, and the metaphorical act of "learning to breathe" again. Production and Distribution Yes, I Can't Swim

(Japanese: Hai, Oyogemasen ) is a 2022 Japanese drama film directed by Kensaku Watanabe. It is based on an autobiographical novel by philosopher Hidetake Takahashi. Plot Overview Last Afternoon - song and lyrics by Takuma

The international rights for the film were handled by Free Stone Productions , which showcased the title at major film markets like Filmart. Plot Overview The international rights for the film

The story follows Yuji Takanashi (played by Hiroki Hasegawa), a university professor who specializes in philosophy. Despite his intellect, he has a crippling, lifelong phobia of water and cannot swim. He eventually signs up for a swimming class at a local pool, where he meets Shizuka Usuhara (played by Haruka Ayase), a blunt and dedicated swimming instructor. As Yuji struggles to stay afloat, the film explores the deeper emotional traumas and past tragedies—specifically involving his family—that are the root cause of his fear. Release Date: June 10, 2022 (Japan). Cast: Hiroki Hasegawa as Yuji Takanashi. Haruka Ayase as Shizuka Usuhara. Director: Kensaku Watanabe.

The film features an original soundtrack composed by Takuma Watanabe .